AN ACTION group against the controversial acne drug Roaccutane is calling for it to be taken off the market.

Roaccutane Action Group is an international network which supports families who have been affected by the side effects of the drug.

They are calling for the drug to be banned after the death of Adam Long from Car Bank Street, Atherton, the latest to be linked to the drug.

The 22-year-old took his own life in January 2006 after being prescribed the medication.

Roaccutane has been used by approximately 13 million people world-wide, but has had side effects in some users and has been linked to depression and 15 suicides since its introduction in 1983.

Cathy Stokes-Perkins, UK spokesman for Roaccutane Action Group, said: "How many more deaths have to be linked to this drug before it is taken of the market?

"One is too many, but now it is becoming one or two a year. It is such a dangerous drug but no-one is listening. No-one knows why it works, or why it doesn't and they cannot predict who will react to it."

The manufacturer, Roche, said: "Unfortunately, severe acne can cause some sufferers to become depressed and can also affect their mood and self-esteem.

"This is why the information provided with Roaccutane carries a warning that some patients may experience mood changes, including an increase in depression."

An inquest at Bolton Coroners Court heard that Adam died when he lay in front of a train near Engine Lane in Atherton.

The driver applied the breaks immediately and sounded the horn but he did not move out of the way.