Evidence

2019 surveillance of needle and syringe programmes (NICE guideline PH52)

Surveillance decision

Surveillance decision

We will not update the guideline on needle and syringe programmes. Although no new evidence impacts on the current guideline recommendations, we recognise a need, as highlighted by Public Health England feedback, to clarify the broader care pathway for the management of drug misuse. We are therefore engaging with system partners with the aim of developing NICE guidance that is comprehensive and accessible.

Reasons for the decision

New evidence was identified but was considered to be consistent with current recommendations, or would need to be substantiated by further studies to have a potential impact.

Topic experts highlighted some areas that could be considered for review. However, these could be addressed through editorial amendments or were not supported by evidence of sufficient quality or relevance.

For further details and a summary of all evidence identified in surveillance, see appendix A.

NICE will continue to clarify the broader care pathway for the management of drug misuse and engage with system partners to develop NICE guidance that is comprehensive and accessible. A planned workshop will consider integrating:

  • NICE's guidelines on drug misuse

  • NICE's guideline on needle and syringe programmes

  • NICE's technology appraisal guidance on methadone and buprenorphine, and naltrexone, for the management of opioid dependence

  • NICE's evidence summary that is being produced on depot buprenorphine.


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