Needle exchange programmes are available in selected pharmacies across England. It allows people who inject intravenous drugs obtain clean sterile needles and syringes and safely dispose off the used needles and syringes. This service is in place to prevent people sharing or re using needles. It also reduces drug related harm and the transmission of blood borne bacterial and viral infections such as hepatitis B and C or HIV. The service is lead by a Pharmacist in a non-judgemental manner and may lead to the service user being referred to an appropriate drug treatment programme i.e. opioid substitute treatment in order to stop drug usage . Pharmacists can also advise on minimising the harms caused by drugs and sign post to support groups.
