I am finding that as I get nearer to my next dose of Ritalin I start having a bit of a comedown, and I get headaches and exhaustion. This is particularly noticeable at the end of the day when I stop taking them. I find I get really emotional and moody after the pills have worn off. I am on a schedule of 10,5,10,5mg throughout the day, every 3 hours. Are the headaches and the other symptoms normal? Is there anything I can do to stop getting the headaches or should I keep up the Paracetamol in the evening to get some relief?

Talk to your doctor.

Sounds like you are getting too much at some point, to me... (before the headache that is the coming down...)

Check with your doctor.

Are there any forms of longer acting ritalin or concerta availible in Australia?

I don't know about the longer acting ritalin. I might look into it. I do find though that if I don't have these doses then it is not enough. I have just recently had my afternoon dose increased because I needed a bit extra, as I do first thing in the morning. I was reading another post and it said about dehydration. Maybe that is just my problem. I might start drinking more water just to be sure..... :-)