O036 Melatonin down-scheduling: An exploration of caregiver and pharmacist perspectives towards melatonin use in school-aged children and adolescents

Abstract Background Melatonin is a widely used paediatric sleep-aid. Recent regulatory changes in Australia have widened public access to proprietary melatonin products through community pharmacies. Yet little known about how pharmacists and caregivers responded these changes. This study aims explore the impact of down-scheduling on pharmacists. Methods A mixed-methods was conducted convenience sample with school-aged children/adolescents taking melatonin, pharmacists/interns. Participants completed an online questionnaire were given option participate in-depth semi-structured interview. The interviews digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim analysed using Framework Approach identify emergent themes. Results 53 surveys returned (caregivers, n=41; pharmacists, n=12). Caregivers (mean age=44.5±5.6; 98.0% female) reported moderate carer burden (18.8±6.8 points) commonly cared for children age=11.7±2.9) comorbid autism spectrum disorder (n=18;43.9%) ADHD (n=17;41.5%). Pharmacists age=28.9±9.6; 71.4% handled 12.9±12.4 sleep-related enquires/day received direct requests 19.5±15.9 times/week. Preliminary analyses identified three key themes: (1) product cost formulation availability; (2) differing safety endpoints; (3) gaps patient/clinical education. highlighted need affordable flexible dosing options. “naturalness” often conflated long-term by caregivers, lower abuse/misuse potential Targeted education resources needed both Conclusion Findings allude further refine existing educational, clinical distribution/supply processes involved around children/adolescents.