I was able to taper off of Prednisone, 11 months after I started Actemra infusions. Once I got to 5 mg. of Prednisone I made sure I didn't rush my taper. I did not have a flare when I finished. When I was on Prednisone, the side affects were horrible. I could count them on two hands. I'm still on Actemra (17 months) and am getting anxious to taper off of it. It has severely affected my immune system. I have an appointment with my rheumy later this month.