PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a 28-day course of emergency HIV medication. It must be started within 72 hours of a high-risk exposure (e.g., a condom break with a partner of unknown status), but the sooner you start it, the more effective it is. In Lithuania, it is provided through the state health system.
🚨 Where to Go Right Now
Do not wait for a convenient appointment. Your route depends entirely on the time of day.
| Time / Day | Where to Go | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Anytime | Priėmimo skyrius (emergency reception) at a major hospital | 24/7 capacity. They will assess risk and initiate PEP. |
Major Hospitals
- Vilnius: Vilniaus universiteto ligoninė Santaros klinikos (Santariškių g. 14).
- Kaunas: Kauno Klinikos (Eivenių g. 2).
Do not go to your šeimos gydytojas (GP / family doctor). They cannot prescribe PEP. Go directly to Santaros Klinikos emergency reception in Vilnius, or the nearest ligoninė (hospital) priėmimo skyrius.
🗣️ Navigating Triage
At the emergency reception (A&E), explain the situation clearly.
- Use the terminology: "Turėjau riziką užsikrėsti ŽIV. Man reikia profilaktikos po ekspozicijos (PEP)." (I had a risk of HIV exposure. I need post-exposure prophylaxis — PEP).
- State the timeline: Tell them exactly how many hours ago the exposure was.
- Be direct about the exposure: Explain exactly what happened (e.g., receptive anal sex without a condom) to help the doctor assess the risk.
The Starter Pack: The infectious disease team will dispense a starter pack from the hospital pharmacy. The follow-up is mandatory. You must return before it runs out to complete the 28-day course.
💊 The Medication: What to Expect
The standard Lithuanian PEP regimen usually consists of Truvada (or a generic equivalent) taken alongside an integrase inhibitor — typically dolutegravir (Tivicay).
- It is a strict regimen: PEP is not a morning-after pill. It is a mandatory 28-day course, and you cannot miss doses.
- Side effects are manageable: You may experience nausea, fatigue, or diarrhea, though not everyone does. The clinic will often prescribe anti-sickness medication alongside your PEP.
- Do not stop: Never stop taking PEP without speaking to a doctor first.
💶 Cost
- Lithuanian health insurance (draudimas): The cost should be fully or mostly covered.
- EU/EEA visitors with EHIC: Emergency care is covered. Bring your EHIC card.
- Uninsured: Emergency medical care is still provided in Lithuania. You may be billed afterward. Do not let uncertainty about cost prevent you from going within the 72-hour window.
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