Following the sudden death of a thriving Queenstown teenager, a team of researchers has gathered information about the side effects of Isotretinoin-based acne drugs (most commonly available as Oratane in New Zealand).

Banned and restricted around the world, Isotretinoin-based drugs are widely used and often handed out without warning by some New Zealand GPs. 

The medical practice that prescribed the young man’s medication has introduced a protocol around the drug following his death. From now on, anyone prescribed Isotretinoin-based medication will be made fully aware of the risks and required to sign a waiver to acknowledge they have read and understood the side effects and risks associated with taking this drug. 

But much more change is needed. 

A team of lobbyists is working at a national level to shift New Zealand’s regulations around this drug in line with global best practice. 

In the meantime, the family of this young man wish to make schools and families aware of the information that has been gathered about the dangerous side effects of Isotretinoin, in the hope that no other family will suffer the same devastating loss. 

Please click hereto read about Isotretinoin-based medications. Please feel free to share this information with colleagues and families. 

Regards, 

Amie Richardson 

On behalf of the family