Is acupuncture needle safe?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved acupuncture needles for use by licensed practitioners in 1996. The FDA requires that pre-sterilized, nontoxic, metallic and disposable needles be used. This eliminates the risk of any transmission of disease. Manufacturers must provide information about needle material, sterility and compatibility and must label “for single use only”. The needles must also bear a prescription label restricting use to qualified practitioners as determined by individual states.
