Wal-Mart to Sell $4 Generic Drugs in 11 More States

BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. here said yesterday it would begin selling certain generic prescription drugs for $4 in 11 new states, bringing the total to 38 states. In addition, the company announced that it's adding 17 more prescriptions to the program.

The states being added to the program are Washington, Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, and West Virginia.

In making the announcement, Bill Simon, e.v.p. of Wal-Mart's Professional Services Division, said that the $4 generics program now includes 331 generic prescriptions available for up to a 30-day supply at commonly prescribed dosages.

Simon also noted that Wal-Mart will continue to push for rapid expansion to other states. "We're moving this forward as quickly as possible, but we need to do it in a way that doesn't hamper our ability to serve our customers," he said.

Wal-Mart launched the $4 generic drug program in Florida in September. Since that time it has rapidly added more states to the program, based on customer demand.

In response, supermarkets and drug store chains alike have responded with similar promotions or other special offers on commonly prescribed drugs such as antibiotics.

In the latest such case, Natick, Mass.-based BJ's Wholesale Club said yesterday that its BJ's Pharmacy locations in Massachusetts will now charge only $4 for 30-day supplies of select generic medication prescriptions.

"BJ's constantly strives to provide its customers with top-quality services, value, and convenience," said Chris Cella, v.p. of pharmacy operations for BJ's Pharmacy at BJ's Wholesale Club. "As such, BJ's Pharmacy is committed to offering consumers competitive pricing every day on both generic and brand-name prescriptions not typically covered by insurance. Members are encouraged to drop off their prescriptions with us and then shop our club for the rest of their needs, saving them valuable time and money."
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