Ultimate Guide to Japanese Medicine
By Kah Mun Fu | November 10th, 2025
Have you caught a cold? Are your allergies acting up? Need to refill your prescription medication soon? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Choosing the right Japanese medicine can seem daunting at first; you probably don’t know which medication to get for what symptom or condition, or you’re worried about how to express your symptoms to a pharmacist or chemist. In this guide, we’ll show you where to find a pharmacy in Japan, how to get a prescription filled out, and what Over the counter, or OTC medications are available to treat which symptom.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended as medical advice. While this may be a guide on how to get medicine in Japan, readers should always consult a medical professional for advice on treatment.
This article is a part of our extensive series on Learning about Japan through Online Japanese Lessons at Japan Switch.
Is Japanese Medicine less effective?
There is some debate on the effectiveness of Japanese medicine as compared to medicine from abroad. Some may say that Japanese medicine is not as effective in alleviating their symptoms while others might say the opposite. The main difference between Japanese and Western medication is that Japanese medicine dosages tend to contain less than what you’re used to; for example, Tylenol in Japan comes in 300mg tablets, as compared to your usual 500mg outside of Japan. This could explain why some Japanese medications might not work for some people.
Pro Tip: Just like any medication, take it according to the package instructions. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after taking OTC medication, see a doctor. They might be able to prescribe you some stronger prescription medication.
Types of Japanese Medicine: What are Class 1, 2 and 3 drugs?
For Japanese medicine which is sold over-the-counter, they are classified according to risk levels, such as how likely a medication’s side effects can interfere with daily life. Risk level is classified on a scale of 1 to 3, with 1 being the most risky to 3 being the least risky.
Class 1 Japanese medicine
Class 1 drugs are OTC medications that are very effective, but are most likely to interfere with daily life due to their potential side effects. Examples of Class 1 Drugs include some painkillers and stomach medicine. These medications are not accessible to customers as they are usually stored in a cabinet behind the counter, and must be sold by a licensed pharmacist. In order to buy this type of medication, you have to consult with an on-site pharmacist. If you are able to buy Class 1 OTC medication, you will always receive an explanation in-person and in writing on how to use the medication from the pharmacist.
Class 2 Japanese medicine
Class 2 drugs are OTC medications that rarely cause side effects, and therefore don’t really interfere with day to day life that often. Examples of Class 2 drugs include cold medicines. While medication that falls under this category is accessible to customers (meaning they’re not locked behind the counter), you will often receive an explanation from the pharmacist or registered seller on their proper use.
There are also Designated Class 2 drugs, which have a slightly higher risk of potential side effects, which depends on the user. These medications require more attention as they are more likely than Class 2 drugs to cause side effects. To tell whether a medication is a Class 2 drug or Designated Class 2 drug, check whether the number 2 in 第2類医薬品 (Dai-ni rui iyakuhin) is enclosed in a circle or square.
Class 3 Japanese medicine
Class 3 drugs are OTC medications that have very few side effects, so they will not cause a hindrance to your daily life. However, Class 3 OTC drugs might cause changes to your body or discomfort when taken. Examples of Class 3 drugs include vitamin supplements. Medications that fall under this category do not require consultation by a pharmacist and are directly accessible to customers.
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Over the Counter Japanese Medicine by Symptoms
Japanese Medicine for Common Colds
Eve A (Ibuprofen)
Eve A is a Designated Class 2 Drug that is used to treat common cold symptoms such as fever and headaches. The main ingredient, Ibuprofen, helps to reduce fevers and pain symptoms.
Dosage: Take 2 tablets with cold or lukewarm water up to 3 times a day with 4 hour intervals in between.
Side Effects: May include rashes, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, shortness of breath or blurred vision. Rare side effects such as anaphylaxis or liver dysfunction may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medication. Like most medications, do not drink alcohol before and after taking this medication. Do not drive or operate any heavy machinery after taking this medication. Do not take other cold or pain medications along with this medication.
Pabron Gold A
Pabron Gold A is a Designated Class 2 OTC medication that relieves common cold symptoms such as fever, headache and coughs. You can find them in either granule or tablet form.
Dosage: For granules, take 1 packet per dose with cold or lukewarm water, up to 3 times per day.
For tablets, take 3 tablets with cold or lukewarm water up to 3 times per day.
Children between the ages of 12 to 14 must take two-thirds of the packet (in granule form) or 2 tablets (in tablet form) three times a day.
Side Effects: May cause nausea, vomiting, rashes, itchy skin, loss of appetite, difficulty urinating, excessive decrease in temperature.
Considerations: Aside from the standard warnings (no drinking alcohol, don’t drive after taking this medication, etc.) if you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine.
Lulu Attack EX
Lulu Attack EX is a Designated Class 2 drug that is used to treat cough and cold symptoms. It contains ingredients that reduce symptoms associated with the common cold, such as fevers and sore throats.
Dosage: Take 2 tablets 3 times a day with water, ideally within 30 minutes after eating a meal.
Side Effects: May cause nausea, vomiting, rashes, dizziness, shortness of breath, difficulty urinating, blurred vision, etc. In rare cases, anaphylaxis, blood disorders, etc. may occur.
Considerations: People who have had allergic reactions to similar medication, children under the age of 15, pregnant women whose due date is in 12 weeks or less, and those who have developed asthma from similar products should not take this medicine. In addition, women who are breastfeeding should not take this medicine. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Japanese Medicine for Coughs
Contac EX
Contac EX is a Designated Class 2 OTC drug that is used to treat both cold symptoms and coughs, though it is mainly used as a cough medicine. Although the main ingredient of this medication is ibuprofen, it contains dextromethorphan, which suppresses cough symptoms. This medicine comes in capsule form.
Dosage: Take 2 capsules 2 times a day; in the morning and in the evening with warm water, ideally within 30 minutes after eating a meal.
Side Effects: May cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, heartburn, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, etc. In rare cases, conditions such as anaphylaxis may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medication. Do not take other gastrointestinal drugs whilst taking this medication. Do not drive or operate any heavy machinery after taking this medication.
Stona EX
This is a Designated Class 2 OTC drug that is highly effective in treating coughs. Some of its ingredients are mainly used to treat cold symptoms as well. It usually comes in tablet form, though other variations of this medication exist in different colored boxes and in capsule form.
Dosage: For tablets, take 2 tablets 3 times a day within 30 minutes after eating a meal. Always follow the package instructions.
Side Effects: May cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, rashes, dizziness, difficulty urinating, shortness of breath, blurred vision, etc. Rare side effects such as anaphylaxis may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medication. Standard warnings apply (don’t drink alcohol, don’t drive or operate any machinery, etc.).
Medicon Cough Suppressant Tablets Pro
This is a Designated Class 2 drug which contains ingredients that are highly effective in relieving coughs. It usually comes in tablet form and is easy to take.
Dosage: Take 2 tablets 3 times a day with cold or lukewarm water, with intervals of at least 4 hours between doses.
Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, breathlessness, shortness of breath, anaphylaxis in extremely rare cases.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medication. Do not take this medication if you have experienced allergic reactions to its ingredients. Do not take this medication along with other cold medicines, antihistamines, etc.
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Japanese Medicine for Stomach Aches
Stoppa EX (ストッパEX)
This is a Class 2 Drug that is used to treat diarrhea symptoms. It is easy to carry around, and doesn’t contain ingredients that make you drowsy.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet 3 times a day, with 4 hour intervals between doses.
Side Effects: May cause rashes, itchiness, headaches, difficulty urinating, flushed face, increased sensitivity to light. In rare cases, blurred vision and dry eyes may occur, in that case stop taking this medication.
Considerations: Although this medication doesn’t contain drowsy ingredients, do not drive or operate any heavy machinery after taking it. Children under the age of 15 should not take this medicine. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Buscopan A
Buscopan A is a Class 2 OTC drug that is used to treat stomach aches, abdominal pain and stomach cramps. This medication contains butylscopolamine bromide, which relieves gastrointestinal tension and spasms.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet 3 times a day with cold or lukewarm water, with 4 hour intervals in between doses.
Side Effects: May cause rashes, itchy skin, headaches, difficulty urinating, anaphylaxis in extremely rare cases.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medicine. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Gaster 10
Gaster 10 is a Class 1 Drug that is used to treat stomach aches. The main ingredient, Famotidine, relieves stomach ache symptoms, heartburn, and nausea, as well as suppresses excessive gastric acid.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet up to 2 times a day, with cold or lukewarm water.
Side Effects: May cause rashes, itchiness, irregular heart beat, lightheadedness, convulsions, lethargy, fever with sore throat. In rare cases, anaphylaxis, liver or kidney dysfunction, may occur.
Considerations: This medication is meant for those over the age of 15 years old, though those over the age of 80 should not take Gaster 10.
Japanese Medicine for Hay Fever and Dust allergies
Allegra FX
This is a Class 2 drug that treats nasal symptoms caused by pollen and dust. It is an antihistamine that relieves nasal congestion, sneezes and runny noses. A child-friendly version, Allegra FX Junior, is also available.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet 2 times a day; 1 in the morning, 1 in the evening, on an empty stomach. For Allegra FX Junior, children between the ages of 7 to 11 must take 1 tablet 2 times a day, while children between the ages of 12 to 14 must take 2 tablets 2 times a day.
Side Effects: May cause nausea, headaches, drowsiness, abdominal pain, etc. In rare cases, conditions such as anaphylaxis and liver dysfunction may occur.
Considerations: If you are breastfeeding or allergic to similar medicines (or the ingredients of Allegra FX), do not take this medication. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Claritin EX
Claritin EX is a Class 2 drug that treats mainly nasal symptoms caused by hay fever or dust such as stuffy or runny nose, as well as sneezes. This medicine doesn’t contain ingredients that make the user drowsy.
Dosage: 1 tablet once a day, after eating a meal. Take this medicine at the same time daily.
Side Effects: May cause rashes, hair loss, sore throat, headaches, nausea, cardiovascular problems, etc. In rare cases, anaphylaxis, epilepsy, and liver dysfunction may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medicine. If you are breastfeeding, or have experienced allergic reactions to similar medicines, do not take this medication. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Contac Z
Contac Z is a Class 2 Drug that is used to treat allergy symptoms caused by indoor and outdoor allergies such as dust and pollen. It mainly relieves nasal symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and congestion. Luckily, this medication won’t make you drowsy.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet once per day with cold or warm water.
Side Effects: May cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, etc. In rare cases, anaphylaxis or liver dysfunction may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medicine. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Japanese Medicine for Headaches and Migraines
Bufferin Premium DX Quick Plus
This is a Class 2 OTC Drug that is used for pain relief and treating fevers. It is a fast-acting medication that uses ibuprofen and acetaminophen-based relief.
Dosage: Take 2 tablets, up to 2 times a day, with cold or lukewarm water.
Side Effects: May cause symptoms such as rashes, nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness, drowsiness, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or blurred vision. In rare cases, conditions such as anaphylaxis, kidney disorder, or asthma may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15 should not take this medicine. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
Tylenol A
Surprisingly, you can get Tylenol in Japan. Tylenol is a Class 2 OTC Drug used to treat headaches and fevers. The main ingredient in Tylenol, acetaminophen, helps to reduce chills caused by fevers and relieve pain.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet with water, up to 3 times per day with 4 hour intervals in between doses.
Side Effects: May cause symptoms such as rashes, itchy skin, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, or excessive decrease in body temperature. In rare cases, conditions such as anaphylaxis may occur.
Considerations: This medication is meant to be taken for those above the age of 15 years old. Avoid taking this medication on an empty stomach if you are experiencing common cold symptoms.
Loxonin S
Loxonin S is a Class 1 drug used to treat headaches, menstrual cramps, and even toothaches. In addition to reducing pain symptoms, this medication can also be used to treat fevers. It has a fast acting nature, which makes it perfect for immediate pain relief.
Dosage: Take 1 tablet per dose with water. Take 2 doses per day, with a 4 hour interval in between.
Side Effects: May cause nausea, loss of appetite, or drowsiness. In rare cases, anaphylaxis, kidney dysfunction or liver dysfunction may occur.
Considerations: Children under the age of 15, those who have experienced allergic reactions to this medication or its ingredients, those with blood disorders, and those who are pregnant and are due to give birth in less than 12 weeks should not take this medication. Avoid taking this medication on an empty stomach. Otherwise, standard warnings apply.
What to do when experiencing certain side effects
In the event that you do experience certain side effects, such as shortness of breath, rashes, or increased blood pressure, stop taking the medication and consult a doctor immediately.
If needed, check your city or ward’s medical association, or ishikai (医師会), to find the nearest emergency clinic or hospital. Do keep in mind that most ishikai websites have little to no English support (though the ishikai for Shibuya Ward has English support). For more severe side effects such as anaphylactic shock, call 119 for an ambulance immediately.
Popular Pharmacists and Drug Stores to Buy Japanese Medicine
There are many drugstores and pharmacies in Japan, with each having their own opening hours and product availability. One thing to keep in mind is that pharmacists' opening hours will differ from drugstore opening hours, as they tend to close earlier. Opening times might differ on the weekends as well, since some pharmacies are either closed on the weekends or have shorter hours.
In addition, product availability will depend from branch to branch; some stores might only sell Class 2 and 3 drugs whilst others will have Class 1, 2 and 3 drugs available. In terms of price, there is relatively no difference in pricing when it comes to OTC medication, so just go to the pharmacy or drugstore that’s the most convenient for you.
Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Matsumoto Kiyoshi, often shortened to MatsuKiyo, is the most well known drugstore chain in Japan, with over 3400 stores across the country. You can find a range of OTC medications at MatsuKiyo stores, as well as skincare, cosmetic items, shampoo, and snacks.
Opening hours: Opens 10:00am to 09:00pm; varies from branch to branch, check website for more details.
Is there a pharmacist’s office?: Varies from branch to branch, check website for more details. Look for the words chouzai-uketsuke (調剤受付).
English support: Some stores might offer English support, primarily in the major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.
Welcia
Welcia is another big pharmacy and drugstore chain with over 2000 stores open throughout Japan. This drugstore chain is known for having integrated pharmacies within their stores.
Opening hours: Opens 09:00am to 09:00pm; varies from branch to branch, check Welcia’s website for more details.
Is there a pharmacist on-site?: Open from 09:00am to 09:00pm; varies from branch to branch, check website for more details. Look for the words chouzai heisetsu-ten (調剤併設店).
English support: Some stores might offer English support, primarily in the major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.
Tomods
Tomods is one of the lesser known pharmacy and drugstore chains, as their stores are mostly found in the Kanto area of Japan. However, the majority of their stores can be found close to many train stations. Like most drugstores, you can find OTC medication for sale, as well as cosmetics, and daily necessities.
Opening hours: Opens from 10:00 to 09:00pm; varies from branch to branch, check website for more details.
Is there a pharmacist on-site?: Open from 09:00am to 07:00pm; varies from branch to branch, check website for more details. Look for the words shohousen uketsuke (処方せん受付).
English support: Some stores might offer English support, primarily in the major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.
How to get a prescription filled in Japan
How to get a prescription
You will need a prescription from your doctor in order to get prescription medication. You can get your prescription from any doctor in Japan, but if you’re looking for a clinic with English support, we have provided a list of English-speaking doctors in Japan, specifically in the Tokyo area.
At the Pharmacy
Before you go to the pharmacy, make sure to bring important documents such as your National Health Insurance Card or your My Number Card (if applicable). You’ll save a lot of money that way; if you have health insurance, you only have to pay 20 percent of the full cost of your Japanese medication.
When you arrive at the pharmacy, the process to get your prescription fulfilled is simple:
- Go to the counter and show your prescription given to you by your doctor.
- The pharmacist will ask if you have health insurance or a My Number card. Give the respective documents to the pharmacist.
- The pharmacist will then give you a numbered ticket. Wait until they call your number. Wait times can vary by how busy the pharmacy is on that day.
- When the pharmacist calls your number, go to the counter. The pharmacist will show you the prescribed medication and explain how to take them, though written instructions in Japanese or English will be provided as well.
- Pay for your medication and you are done!
Useful phrases at a Japanese drug store/pharmacy
Symptoms
| 熱があります。 | netsu ga arimasu. | I have a fever. |
| 喉が痛いです。 | nodo ga itai desu. | My throat hurts. |
| お腹が痛いです。 | onaka ga itai desu. | My stomach hurts. |
| 咳が出ます。 | seki ga demasu. | I have a cough. |
| 痰が出ます。 | tan ga demasu. | I'm coughing up phlegm. |
| 鼻水が出ます。 | hanamizu ga demasu. | I have a runny nose. |
| 花粉症です。 | kafunshou desu. | I have hay fever. |
| アレルギーがあります。 | arerugi ga arimasu. | I have allergies. |
| 頭が痛いです。 | atama ga itai desu. | My head hurts. |
| 便秘しています。 | benpi shiteimasu. | I am constipated. |
| 下痢をしています。 | geri shiteimasu. | I have diarrhea. |
| 乳糖不耐症です。 | nyuutou futaishou desu. | I am lactose intolerant. |
Specific Medications
| 痛み止め | itami-dome | Painkillers |
| 風邪薬 | kaze-gusuri | Cold medicine |
| 胃薬 | igusuri | Stomach Medicine |
| 抗ヒスタミン薬 | kouhisutaminyaku | Antihistemines |
| 目薬 | megusuri | Eyedrops |
| 咳止め | seki-dome | Cough medicine |
| 〜がありますか？ | ~ga arimasu ka? | Do you have (name of medication)? |
| 薬は何かおすすめますか？ | kusuri wa nani ka osusume masu ka? | What medications do you recommend? |
| この薬を飲んだら、症状がありますか？ | kono kusuri wo nondara, shoujou ga arimasu ka? | If I drink this medicine, will there be any side effects? |
| この薬は眠くなりますか？ | kono kusuri wa nemuku narimasu ka? | Will this medication make me sleepy? |
| この薬を飲むとき、運転できますか？ | kono kusuri wo nomu toki, unten dekimasu ka? | Can I drive while on this medication? |
| 〜を飲んでいますし、この薬も飲めますか？ | ~nondeimasu shi, kono kusuri mo nomemasu ka? | I am taking (name of medication), is it okay to take this medication? |
| この薬はどれぐらい効きますか？ | kono kusuri wa dore gurai kikimasu ka? | How long does this medication last for? |
Bringing medication to Japan
Of course, you have the option of bringing your medication from your home country to Japan. However, there are a list of rules and regulations that you need to follow before you can bring your medication into Japan. In general, it’s okay to bring in medication from abroad as long as:
- It is for personal use.
- You bring in no more than 1 month (for prescription drugs) or 2 months (non-prescription drugs) supply of medication. This also includes disposable contact lenses.
If you are carrying more than 1 or 2 months supply of prescription medication and OTC medication respectively, then you will have to apply for an Import Confirmation Certificate, or Yunyu Kakunin-sho (輸入確認書). You can now apply for a Yunyu Kakunin-sho online or by submitting an email. You will usually receive the Yunyu Kakunin-sho in a few business days. If approved, make sure to present the Yunyu Kakunin-sho to customs when you arrive in Japan.
It is prohibited to bring in controlled substances or medication with certain ingredients, such as cannabis, amphetamine, and opium. Always check the Ministry Of Health, Labor and Welfare’s website as well as the Narcotics Control Department to see whether your medication might contain these ingredients. In addition, if your medication does contain controlled substances, you must apply for permission by email, mail or FAX to the Narcotics Control Department.
Kampo: Traditional Japanese Medicine
What is Kampo?
Kampo, or traditional Japanese medicine, is a system of traditional medicine based on the theories of traditional Chinese medicine. The origin of Kampo can be pinpointed to the 5th and 6th centuries, where traditional Chinese medicinal practices came to Japan. Although the practice was nearly wiped out in the 19th century, the 20th century saw a resurgence in the practice, and in 1967, Kampo medicines were finally included under public insurance coverage.
Kampo medicine is always made out of natural ingredients such as medicinal herbs, animal products and minerals. It can be used to treat a variety of illnesses, such as colds, stomach problems, and headaches.
Where can I get traditional Japanese medicine?
If you prefer traditional medicine over conventional medicine, some pharmacies and drugstores might offer OTC Kampo medicine, though keep in mind, they tend to be more pricey than conventional medication. You might end up paying more than if you were to buy its modern counterpart.
There are also Kampo practitioners in Japan; look for the characters 漢方 (Kampo) outside of their offices. Ask your doctor if they are able to prescribe Kampo medicine for you, otherwise they will just prescribe standard medication. Although Kampo medicine is entirely natural, always check to see if there are any potential side effects when taking them, and always follow the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist. Lucky, Kampo medications can be covered under health insurance, so you don’t have to worry about paying the full cost.
Final thoughts
And there you have it! Now you know that getting your Japanese medicine and going to the pharmacy does not have to be a daunting experience. It’s all a matter of who to ask, what to ask for, and how to get your medicine.
Hope you get well soon! お大事にどうぞ！(O-daiji ni douzo!)
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