Why was I asked my age at the pharmacist?

[bloomingcovid]

It's not important, but I'm just curious.

I asked for over the counter thrush treatment (oral capsule) and the pharmacist asked my age. I'd understand if I looked under 18 but I'm 46 (and look it!).

Does anyone know if there's a medical reason for asking this? Unsuitable for older people / women going through the menopause maybe?

Asking your age wouldn't tell them if you had gone/were going through the menopause though.

Perhaps for statistics?

This might offend you but this is what nhs says about thrush cream

However, some creams and pessaries are not recommended for children under the age of 16 years or adults aged 60 and above. Thrush affecting the vagina is rare in these age groups so a doctor will need to check what's causing your symptoms before you start any treatment.

It's a consult doctor medication for under 16 and over 60.

The nhs website says:

“Clotrimazole creams can be used by most adults and children. However, some creams and pessaries are not recommended for children under the age of 16 years or adults aged 60 and above.”

The site says after 60 it could be something else and should be checked out.

That must be why you were asked your age.

Ahh, that could be it then. After the stressful Christmas I've had I would probably pass for 60!!

To make myself feel better I will say the assistant was very young. I remember at that age thinking anyone over 40 was old!!

Thanks folks!

If you are over 60 or under 16, (or pregnant) the pharmacist is supposed to refer you to a doctor.

thrush is rare in these age groups due to the lack of vaginal oestrogen, which favours thrush growth, but lack of oestrogen increases susceptibility to other vaginal infections, some of which cannot be treated with over the counter medications.

Are you glad you asked

(I probably would've been asked the same!)

@CeleriacOfTheNight I'm not sure!

I was about to get in the bath anyway. I might do a facepack and dye my hair while I'm there!

I would imagine that to avoid offence in borderline women, they routinely ask every woman her age. That way, they're never in a situation where someone who's 55 is outraged that they thought she was 60, etc.