Supply of unlicensed medicines to children: semi-structured interviews with carers

OBJECTIVES: To explore the experiences of parents and carers relating to the supply of unlicensed medicines for their child after discharge from hospital. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 parents and carers of children who were newly prescribed an unlicensed medicine. Interviews were conducted at least 4 weeks after the child’s discharge from hospital. Qualitative thematic analysis of the data was carried out. RESULTS: Problems were frequently encountered by parents when attempting to obtain further supplies of their child’s unlicensed medicine. Problems included general practitioners (GPs) refusing to prescribe the medicine, GPs prescribing a dose or formulation that differed to what had been prescribed previously, pharmacists who were unable to source a suitable medicine, medicines that were not labelled with administration instructions and delays in obtaining the medicine. Action or intervention by the parent was often required to overcome the problems faced. The necessity of these actions or interventions, and the implication of not succeeding, frequently caused parents anxiety, frustration and dissatisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies for improving the process of medicine supply during the transition between secondary and primary care are necessary and must involve greater communication among healthcare professionals and carers. GPs and community pharmacists should have access to greater support and guidance to facilitate the safe prescribing and supply of unlicensed medicines. Parents and carers should be informed about the process to ensure understanding, create empowerment and to build relationships between them and the professionals responsible for the care of their child.