My younger DD takes 27 mg of Concerta. There is often a "rebound" effect in the afternoons when it wears off. But I have not noticed her being withdrawn.
Taking an afternoon booster of 5 mg short acting methylphenidate definitely helps and there is less of a rebound when that wears off. We don't do it daily because the Concerta really suppresses her appetite. So we like for the Concerta to be worn off by dinner time. But I will say that the booster at 3 definitely makes for a much smoother evening!
If you think that stimulants work better, you may want to talk to the doctor about trying Vyvanse or Adderall, one of the dexamphetamine class of ADHD stimulants vs. the methylphenidate class.
Beth, mom to older DD (8/01) and younger DD (10/06) and always missing Leah (4/22 - 5/1/05)