Stop & Shop to extend free antibiotic prescription program

QUINCY, Mass. The Stop & Shop Supermarket Co. announced plans to extend its free antibiotic program through July 11.

The company will continue to provide free of charge select antibiotics when customers present a doctor's prescription and their Stop & Shop card. The initial program launched on Jan. 2, and was scheduled to end on March 21.

"As customers navigate challenging times, we are continuing to support them through this major consumer wellness initiative, "said consumer advisor Andrea Astrachan. "Many customers are not filling prescriptions because they need to use their money for other necessities. This program was designed to help customers facing difficult economic times."

In addition to the program extension, Stop & Shop is partnering with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to promote its Get Smart program. The Get Smart program answers questions about antibiotics and advocates knowing when antibiotics are appropriate.

"Get Smart is an important tool in understanding antibiotics," Astrachan said. "Antibiotics kill bacteria but don't work on viruses like common colds or flu. Customers should talk to their health care providers and be educated consumers."

Stop & Shop plans to provide a link to Get Smart on its website and display CDC material at its pharmacy counters. CDC posters also will be in stores. Customers needing additional information can ask their local Stop & Shop pharmacist or go to www.stopandshop.com for additional details.