Pharmacies around the United States are offering free antibiotics
to cash-strapped consumers, but health officials say the incentives
send the wrong message and could worsen the problem of drug
resistance.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sent letters to
several pharmacies last week urging them to promote responsible use
of antibiotics to their customers. Several pharmacies, including
Giant Food Stores, Stop & Shop, Wegmans Food Markets and ShopRite,
are offering free antibiotics to customers who have a prescription
from their doctor.
Last year, the centers also sent letters to major retailers who
were promoting low-cost drug programs, urging them to educate
customers about drug resistance. But the agency says some pharmacies
that are giving away antibiotics have linked the offers to the cold
and flu season, prompting the agency to send a new round of letters.
Colds and flu are viral-borne and should not be treated with
antibiotics, doctors say.
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