Prescription Drugs

Depending on what country you come from, you may be used to prescription drugs coming in a bottle. In Japan, prescription pills are most commonly dispensed in blister packs like this, though some clinics and hospitals package them in individual paper envelopes (分包) instead.

Combination drugs (containing multiple active ingredients in one pill) are less common in Japan, so even if you just have a cold, it is common to get multiple paper bags of medications. Written on the front of each paper bag will be the name of the medication, what type of medication it is (pill, patch, cream, etc.), and how to take it. If you have doubts about drug combinations or want to know if you can take an OTC product with your prescription medications, ask a registered Pharmacist.

In countries like the United States, it is common to receive opioids for everything from wisdom tooth removal to major surgery. In Japan, pain management tends to be more conservative — acetaminophen and NSAIDs such as loxoprofen are the most commonly prescribed options for everyday pain and minor procedures. Stronger medications do exist but are reserved for truly serious situations. It should also be noted that bringing certain opioid or narcotic medications into Japan may be illegal even with a valid prescription, as narcotics are governed by stricter laws. You can submit a Yakkan Shoumei (Import Report of Medication) for many medications, but narcotics may be restricted from entry regardless.