Roaccutane and Acne

 Who can Prescribe Roaccutane in the UK, and Why?

In the UK, the prescription of Roaccutane (also known as isotretinoin) for acne is regulated and recommended to be initiated by a dermatologist specialist or their team due to its potent nature and potential side effects.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) provides guidelines for healthcare professionals in the UK. In their guidance on acne treatment (NG198), NICE recommends that isotretinoin (Roaccutane) should be prescribed by a dermatologist or a healthcare professional with expertise in managing severe acne.

There are several reasons for this recommendation:

1. Complexity of Treatment: Isotretinoin is a potent medication used for severe acne and requires careful monitoring due to its potential side effects, which can include birth defects, psychiatric effects, and liver problems.
2. Specialized Knowledge: Dermatologists have specialized training and expertise in managing skin conditions, including severe acne. They are better equipped to assess the severity of acne, consider alternative treatments, and monitor patients for any adverse reactions or side effects.
3. Risk Management: Given the potential risks associated with isotretinoin, dermatologists are more adept at managing these risks and providing necessary information to patients about the treatment regimen, potential side effects, and necessary precautions.
4. Follow-up Care: Regular monitoring and follow-up are crucial during isotretinoin treatment. Dermatologists and their teams can provide ongoing care, monitoring, and support throughout treatment.

These guidelines aim to ensure that patients receive appropriate care, minimize risks, and optimize the effectiveness of the treatment.

Restricting the prescription of Roaccutane to specialists or their teams helps ensure that patients receive comprehensive care and proper management while using this potent medication.

The Medicine can be Lifechanging and primarily, it is up to the Primary care providers to attempt to treat the acne, but if after following guidelines of, the condition does not resolve, refer to the appropriate Dermatologist.

Guidelines can be accessed

www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng198/chapter/recommendations