Pharmacies administer free antibiotics

Cromwell (WTNH) - The tough economic times has everybody looking for ways to save a few bucks. And, with colds and the flu seemingly looming around every school and store, some participating pharmacies are giving out antibiotics for free.

The line is long at the Stop and Shop pharmacy, in Cromwell, but moves quickly because many people are not paying for the medicine. The company is giving away free antibiotics until March 21st to help out in these tough economic times.

"If you look at people today they are trying to decide between putting food on the table or trying to buy their medication," Mark Cooney, of Stop and Shop, said. "We want to do our part in allowing them to do that. So, it's one thing less they have to worry about."

So far thousands of people statewide, from New Haven to Meriden to Cromwell, have taken advantage of the free antibiotics, and many people didn't know they were free.

"He says he is going to call my doctor and get me some free antibiotics, great," Caterina Mozzolini, of Colchester, said. "I lost my job last May and so everything helps."

All you need is a doctor's prescription, no insurance is necessary. Stop and Shop started offering the free drugs in January during the height of the cold and flu season.

"Especially people with kids, they are always sick," Phyllis Pringal, of Cromwell, said. "I think it's awesome; I really do because anything helps. The copays keep going up. I know because I spend $300 a month on copays."

Stop and Shop is not the only one offering free medications. Shop Right stores around Connecticut, like one in Wallingford, are also doing it as well.

"I think it is awesome, whoever thought of it, kudos to them," Pringal said. "Because people today are so greedy."

"It's really generous," Sarah Morello, of Meriden, said. "I think for doing it for that long it gives people time to take advantage of the program."