A CONTROVERSIAL acne drug linked to mental health problems is being prescribed by doctors at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

But the hospital has refused to comment on its safety despite a Bolton Coroner's Court hearing on Monday which found that Adam Long, aged 22, from Car Bank Street, Atherton, took his own life in January 2006 after being prescribed the drug Roaccutane.

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

Campaign groups have called for the drug to be banned.

Heather Edwards, a spokesman for the Royal Bolton Hospital, said: "It is not appropriate to discuss the safety of the drug and any concerns should be raised with the manufacturers."

Alternative treatments for acne are available, according to experts.

Laserase offer an alternative acne treatment, by clearing up skin conditions with lasers.

Alyson Cooper, a laser nurse at Laserase, a private clinic based at the Royal Bolton Hospital, said: "We have assessed a number of patients who have been prescribed Roaccutane and the results vary. Some have had bad experiences, while it has worked really well for others."

Roaccutane 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.