Concerta and Ritalin are not the same thing (sorry, Step - common misconception). They are based on the same chemical composition - methylphenidate. But, some people who cannot tolerate Ritalin, can use Concerta, and vice versa. So... there's a difference, somewhere. Most who do well on Ritalin, also do well on Concerta. We were told to never use generic methylphenidate, it just isn't as effective and they don't know why. But... Ritalin is not that expensive. Concerta, on the other hand, IS expensive. There are other medications related to these - Folacin is one, I don't know all of them because most aren't available where I am.
My kids used Ritalin through to about grade 6 or 7, then went to Concerta. I've used Ritalin for 10 years... I like the short-acting approach. I time my dose for when I have to be on my toes. If I want to have a nap, I plan that between doses. I can be "on top" at 7 a.m. for a business function - and also be "on top" at 7 p.m. for a social function... but I can't quite cover the whole day. For someone who is medications compliant and organized, there's a nice side to Ritalin. It is also well known that the rebound effect goes down as age goes up.