Latest analysis: Antibiotics are being prescribed more responsibly in Lithuania, but the problem of inappropriate use persists
The number of inappropriately reimbursed antibiotic prescriptions in Lithuania is declining. However, specialists warn that antibiotic use continues to pose significant challenges to both patients’ health and the healthcare system as a whole. This is highlighted by the latest analysis of antimicrobial medicine consumption conducted by specialists at the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
The analysis revealed that in 2025, the number of antibiotic prescriptions that did not comply with the List A reimbursement indications decreased across all regions of Lithuania. Compared with the first half of 2024, the proportion of inappropriately reimbursed broad-spectrum antibacterial medicines fell from 31% to 16% in the first half of 2025. According to specialists, this may indicate that healthcare providers are gaining a better understanding of how to prescribe antibiotics more rationally.
Nevertheless, the problem remains relevant. Antibiotics are still often prescribed for diagnoses where antibacterial treatment is not recommended according to clinical guidelines, such as acute upper respiratory tract infections, bronchitis, or common cold. Specialists from the NHIF remind that antibiotics only work against bacterial infections and are not effective in treating viral illnesses.
“Every unjustified prescription of antibiotics contributes to the increase in bacterial resistance. This means that in the future, even relatively mild infections may become more difficult to treat. It is encouraging that we see positive changes in healthcare institutions; however, the rational use of antibiotics must become a consistent practice throughout the entire healthcare system,” says Adomas Danilevičius, Chief Specialist of the Pharmaceutical Consumption Monitoring Division at the NHIF and a physician pharmacologist.
According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, antimicrobial resistance remains one of the greatest public health threats in Europe. Inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to poorer treatment outcomes, a higher risk of adverse reactions, longer treatment periods, and increased costs for both patients and the state.
The NHIF analysis also revealed significant differences between municipalities. In Kaunas region, many municipalities improved or maintained relatively high indicators; however, in some areas, the proportion of inappropriate prescriptions remained high. Specialists of the Health Insurance Fund emphasise that it is important not only to monitor antibiotic prescribing statistics but also to assess the reasons for prescribing them and plan appropriate actions. For example, this may include adding new diagnoses to the medicine reimbursement system or providing additional education for doctors and patients.
To promote the rational use of antibiotics, the Institute of Hygiene has developed a free, easily accessible mobile application called “AntibLT” for doctors, which provides the latest national recommendations on the use of antimicrobial medicines.
The NHIF reminds that antibiotics must only be used when prescribed by a doctor, that the prescribed dose and duration of treatment must be followed, and that leftover medicines should not be shared with others. Responsible antibiotic use today may determine whether they remain effective in the future.
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