Since you have been on the methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine for 2 1/2 months, you’re almost there. It typically takes about three months, sometimes a little longer for both of those medications to build up and level off. It does sound like you have experienced a flare and hopefully they will be in frequent and mild as your treatment becomes more effective. As the MTX and HCQ build up, you are tapering the prednisone which is a good plan for treatment. In the future, if you experience a flare, your doctor may have you bump up the prednisone dose for a short while to get you over the hump. your treatment plan is very similar to the treatment for many other autoimmune disorders as well. The MTX and HCQ doses can be modified to get you to the minimum prednisone dose possible to avoid the long-term side effects. This will get better with time and fine tuning your medication doses. Unfortunately, it also requires modification of your lifestyle in that you must be flexible and prepared for the unexpected. Flares can occur spontaneously. There is not always a trigger involved. I am sorry you’re experiencing this, but it seems your doctors are being aggressive at treating it and getting your symptoms under control. You will find many people here who are living with similar conditions who will be helpful with information and encouragement.