Newly Diagnosed -- Treatment?

[Guest guest]

Hello,

I'm brand new to this message board, and to RA. I was newly

diagnosed last week as exhibiting the pattern of early RA. I'm 32,

and I've had symptoms off and on for the last five years. The

duration of swelling increased enough recently to get the diagnosis.

Right wrist gets painful and swollen; ditto for right knee; swelling

in both hand by the knuckles.

My rheumy suggested I start with either methotrexate or Plaquenil.

I'm leaning towards MTX. However, I don't want to overdo my initial

treatment if Plaquenil would work, with fewer side effects. Any

thoughts? I really appreciate your help and insight as I weigh the

pros and cons.