Tourette’s wristband wins backing from NHS spending watchdog

A device developed by a spin-out from the University of Nottingham to help with Tourette’s syndrome has been recommended for NHS use by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the NHS spending watchdog.

The Neupulse digital wristband reduces tics caused by Tourette’s by stimulating the median nerve in the wrist.

Earlier this year, the company raised £500,000 to support regulatory approvals and aims to make the device available for UK use by 2026.

Although the NICE recommendation is still in draft form and needs final approval, the wristband could become available on the NHS once regulators approve it.

Founded in 2021, Neupulse has raised nearly £4.5m in funding. Clinical trials show the device can reduce tic frequency by 25% initially, with further improvement after four weeks.

Paul Cable, CEO of Neupulse, said: “The announcement from NICE is a vindication of our product and clearly highlights the need for more treatment options. While we are planning to make our device available directly to people with Tourette’s, having it prescribed by doctors would bring the benefits to a wider audience.

“NICE has launched a public consultation and we urge those affected by Tourette’s to register with NICE and make their views known. Overall the draft guidance is a big step forward for Neupulse and for the wider Tourette’s community.”

 Sandy Reid of Mercia Ventures said: “Winning backing from NICE is a major achievement for any healthtech company, but particularly for one at such an early stage. We believe that Neupulse’s device could transform lives and this recommendation further justifies our faith in the company.”