Prescription Drugs and Medicines

Japan has extremely strict drug laws and It is illegal to bring into the country some over-the-counter medicines commonly used in the US. Specifically, any products that contain stimulants (medicines that contain Pseudoephedrine, such as Actifed, Sudafed, and Vicks inhalers), or Codeine are prohibited. If you’re planning on taking an over the counter medication with you, check the ingredients carefully!

According to Japanese law, up to a two-month supply of allowable over-the-counter medication can be brought or sent into Japan at a time.

When it comes to prescription medication, pharmacies are plentiful and reliable in Japan, and can meet most prescription needs – although there is no such thing as a refill on a prescription in Japan.  To obtain a refill you will need to get a new prescription from a Japanese physician. A psychiatrist has regular office hours every Friday at ICU’s counseling center. Those who need a refill for ADHD and/or other conditions will be able to obtain a prescription by visiting this office.

Please note that some Japanese prescriptions , such as Adderall or Prozac, are prohibited in Japan. Japanese physicians can often prescribe similar, but not identical, substitutes to medicines available in the U.S. Japanese law allows you to bring up to one month’s supply of prescription medications with you, as long as they are carried in their original containers along with a letter from your physician indicating the medication’s generic and brand name, dosage, and description of your medical condition.

For students who plan to bring more than a one month’s supply of prescription medication, you are required to obtain a so-called “Yakkan Shoumei”, or an import certificate in advance, and show the “Yakkan Shoumei” certificate with your prescription medicines at the Customs. For more information, please visit the Embassy of Japan’s website.