Medication needs of children and young people for successful transition to adult services (the SUCCESS study): an exploratory cross-sectional observational study.

Objective: To explore the medication-related knowledge, behaviours and support needs of children and young people (YP) aged 11-16 years with long-term conditions as they prepare to transition from paediatric to adult healthcare services.

Methods: This exploratory cross-sectional study was co-designed with YP living with chronic conditions, conducted at a district general hospital in Northwest London between April and September 2023. Participants were those aged 11-16 years admitted to the paediatric ward with long-term conditions requiring regular medication. YP self-completed a questionnaire on medication-related aspects of transition, including knowledge of medication names, dosages, reordering, side effects, adherence and their ability to manage medications independently.

Results: Of 41 eligible YP, 30 completed the questionnaire (73% response rate). Most knew the names and dosages of their medications (24/30) and why they were prescribed (25/30). However, only half (15) knew how their medicines worked, and fewer (10) were aware of potential side effects. Just 12 participants knew how to reorder their medication. Fifteen reported missing doses, mostly due to forgetfulness. Most relied on parents or carers to manage medicines (23), with only four managing independently. YP reported healthcare professionals (17) and family (19) as their main sources of medication information.

Conclusions: This study suggests that while YP often have good foundational medication knowledge, many lack the deeper understanding and practical skills required for independent self-management. Knowledge of side effects, reordering processes and shared decision-making was limited, areas which could undermine transition readiness if unaddressed. Pharmacists, working as part of the multidisciplinary team, are well placed to support YP through targeted, age-appropriate education and regular review.