We are calling on pharmaceutical companies responsible for the production of Isotretinoin to exclude animal-derived ingredients, like gelatin and beeswax, from their product formulation. Isotretinoin, also known by brand names such as Accutane, Claravis, Zenatane, Absorica, Amnesteem, and Myorisan, is a medication used widely in combatting severe acne.

People with acne are often seen as being unclean, unhealthy and to blame for their skin condition.  Children and teens with acne are often teased and left out of activities due to their skin condition.  Acne can cause emotional distress, poor self esteem, anxiety and depression, typically at a crucial time in our lives when we are already vulnerable and experiencing a lot of other turmoil.    Severe acne is also painful, slow to heal and can leave lifelong scars and pit marks.

Isotretinoin medication is one of the most effective ways to treat acne, however, the use of animal-derived ingredients presents a significant problem to a diverse group of potential users. These include people from different cultures and religions, along with vegetarians and vegans, who cannot consume these animal by-products without compromising their beliefs or lifestyle. 

The Jewish, Hindu and Islamic religions, approximately 0.2%, 15.1% and 25.8% of the worlds population respectively, all have some restrictions around the use of animal products and ~3% of the worlds population is vegan, all together representing more than 3.5 billion people. With an increasing global shift towards plant-based diets and lifestyle, it is even more pressing that pharmaceutical companies align their products to be accessible and ethical for all. 

We believe that we should not have to compromise our core beliefs in order to address acne using these effective medications. Join us in this appeal for inclusivity and ethical reform in pharmaceutical practices. Please, sign and share this petition.  

Thank you!