When I used to work in pediatric developmental disabilities, I saw kids medicated into docile creatures and it has always concerned me. These were often kids who were getting into trouble and were so impulsive they were shocked at what they did, and they lacked ability to self direct due to the interference of impulsivity. Which made for some major frustration and self loathing. The meds really helped turn that around --in a caring environment that helped them see themselves as people who could make choices, etc, etc. But I always wondered what they "lost" in their personality
from the meds.
IMO if a med is altering personality substantially, it's probably the wrong med.
It's pretty easy to get into trouble when non-expert prescribers use a one-size-fits-all method. I would never let our excellent pediatrician prescribe these-- we go to someone who has nuanced understanding of the particulars of the child and the med.
OTOH, I don't see disabling levels of hyperactivity as an intrinsic part of personality-- if a person is more able to function when medicated, sometimes it's a relief. My DS once reported that the meds help him be his best self. He appreciates being able to meet others' expectations and feel successful. Sometimes you can't judge this from the outside-- I'd want to know if the person is happier and feels more successful on or off meds.
