Smaller chain pharmacies are trying to compete with the big boys, and in trying to earn store-brand loyalty among their (un- and underinsured) consumers, they are throwing free antiobiotics their way. Last week, the CDC sent out letters those several chain pharmacies that offer no-cost prescription antibiotics to low-income consumers urging them to promote responsible use of antibiotics. The agency is concerned that the no-cost drugs could promote the wrong message and might worsen the problem of drug resistance. Of course it comes as no surprise that the new round of CDC warnings arrive as some pharmacies offering no-cost antibiotics have linked the offers to the cold and flu season, neither of which should be treated with antibiotics. | LINK

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