(ID: 45) Is that on the formulary? Exploring the accessibility of melatonin in primary care in England using a formulary analysis
Abstract
Children with neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism and other neurodivergence, commonly experience sleep difficulties [1]. This can have a significant impact on the child’s cognition, behaviour and on the quality of life of other family members. Melatonin has been shown to improve sleep in autistic children and be a lifeline for parents and caregivers [2]. However, little is known about the accessibility of this treatment.
To understand the variation in guidance for prescribing Melatonin between Integrated Care Systems (ICS’s) in England
A systematic approach was used to identify the status of melatonin prescribing in formularies across England using Google search. This included using key phrases to identify the Area Prescribing Formulary (APFs) for the 42 ICS areas across England. Searches were conducted independently by two authors. Once identified, a data extraction form was used to collect data from the formulary relating to Melatonin prescribing. Formularies listed Melatonin as a ‘Green’, ‘Amber’ or ‘Red’ drug, where Green drugs can be prescribed in primary care, Amber drugs must be initiated by specialists and then a Shared Care Agreement is used so prescribers in primary care can continue the medication; and Red drugs must only be prescribed by hospital specialists. Data was pooled, cleaned and analysed using descriptive statistics to identify patterns, similarities and differences in information included in APFs about melatonin. Ethical approval was not…
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