LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix Super Markets Inc. this week began offering pharmacy customers free 30-day supplies of generic lisinopril, an anti-hypertensive medication.

The Southeastern food and drug retailer noted that the drug, although mainly used to treat high blood pressure, can also be employed in diabetes management.

Lisinopril is part of a class of medications called ACE inhibitors, which are used to prevent, treat or improve symptoms of many conditions, including hypertension, certain heart conditions, diabetes and some chronic kidney conditions.

"While this is not a formal part of the Publix Diabetes Management System, offering lisinopril for free augments the diabetes program perfectly," stated Maria Brous, media and community relations director for Publix. "Since the medication is so widely used, many customers with other conditions will benefit as well. We are hopeful that offering lisinopril for free will help our customers stay compliant with this important medication."

Late last month, Publix announced plans to provide free diabetes screenings at more than 800 of its stores this year. The walk-in diabetes screenings through its pharmacies include a free blood glucose test and diabetes educational material.