Roaccutane - a wonder drug for acne?

The majority of acne sufferers tend to be teenagers and young adults.  For many of these young people who have acne, the skin disease affects more than their appearance. Acne can take a toll on one’s emotional health. Researchers have found in study after study that people with acne can also develop:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Low self-esteem

• Poor self-image

• Decreased quality of life

• A feeling of being all alone

In research studies, people with acne have said that their skin makes them feel unattractive, embarrassed, or self-conscious. These feelings can cause some teens to avoid trying out for sports, getting a part-time job, or participating in class.

There is no doubt acne can have huge consequences for these patients, socially, emotionally and mentally. Here at Oxona we are mindful to consider all aspects of acne – it is not only the visible condition seen on the skin, but also a condition that impacts your sense of self and in extreme cases you ability and desire to fully enjoy your life.  

Our doctors are determined to find a solution for you, your skin and your lifestyle. Roaccutane is not a first line treatment for acne. We have a huge range of different treatments available. But, for those where first and second line treatments don’t work, Isotretinoin (trade name Roaccutane) can be an excellent option. 

It can only be prescribed by a specialist and NHS waiting lists in Oxfordshire and Hertfordshire are around 12 months at present.  Here at Oxona, we can usually see patients within two weeks of contacting us.  Most patients only need a single six-month course of treatment to give long lasting acne free skin.  

Taken by mouth, it significantly reduces grease production by the skin and therefore prevents the acne bacterium from growing.  It also slows down the speed at which the skin produces skin cells within your pores. This ensures that your pores do not become clogged. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, helping to stop those painful red lumps.  

Roaccutane is a powerful drug and needs to be taken with careful monitoring of blood work and mental state.  Here at Oxona our regular face to face consultations ensure we monitor not only your acne and blood work but also you as an individual.  

From our own market research, we offer Roaccutane at one of the most affordable prices in the country.  We strongly believe Roaccutane should be more readily available to those suffer the effects of longterm acne. It should also be available speedily to those where acne is starting to cause scarring. Waiting a year for an NHS consultation is not acceptable when the acne starts to form life long scars.  Our clinicians can get you started on Roaccutane whilst you wait for your NHS dermatology appointment, at which point you can switch to NHS funded care. 

We estimate a full 6 month course of treatment will cost you £1200. This includes six appointments and two blood tests. In addition to this you will need to pay for the private prescriptions direct to the pharmacy. These will be between £16-40 per month depending on the strength of tablet required.  

For further information on Roaccutane (Isotretinoin) we recommend you visit the British Association of Dermatologists and read the Patient Information leaflet which provides an overview of the drug, its licensing in the UK and more information on being prescribed Isotretinoin.