Fukuoka

๐Ÿ’Š

Pharmacies

Information on where to find pharmacies for prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines.

Sections

1. Overview of Pharmacies in Fukuoka

Pharmacies in Japan are called "yakkyoku" (่–ฌๅฑ€) or "kusuriya" (่–ฌๅฑ‹). Fukuoka, being a major city and a gateway to Kyushu, has a wide range of pharmacies, from large chains to small, family-run establishments. Pharmacies in Japan are well-organized, and you can find both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. However, there are some unique aspects of the Japanese pharmacy system that you should be aware of.

2. How to Locate Pharmacies in Fukuoka

  • Google Maps or Navigation Apps: Search for "่–ฌๅฑ€" (yakkyoku) or "pharmacy" in English. Popular chains include Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Sugi Pharmacy, Tsuruha Drug, and Daikoku Drug.
  • Near Train Stations: Many pharmacies are located near major train stations like Hakata Station or Tenjin Station.
  • Shopping Areas: Pharmacies are often found in shopping districts such as Tenjin, Canal City Hakata, or Daimyo.
  • Hospitals and Clinics: Pharmacies are usually located near medical facilities, as prescriptions are often filled immediately after a doctorโ€™s visit.

3. Operating Hours

  • Regular Hours: Most pharmacies operate from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though some may close earlier (around 6:00 PM).
  • 24-Hour Pharmacies: While rare, some larger drugstores in Fukuoka, such as those in busy areas like Tenjin or Hakata, may operate 24/7 or until late at night.
  • Weekends and Holidays: Many pharmacies remain open on weekends, but hours may be shorter. Smaller pharmacies may close on Sundays or public holidays.

4. Types of Medications Available

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

  • Commonly Available OTC Medications:
    • Pain relievers: Loxonin S, Bufferin, Eve (ibuprofen or acetaminophen-based).
    • Cold and flu remedies: Pabron Gold, Contac.
    • Digestive aids: Seirogan, Ohtaโ€™s Isan (for stomach issues).
    • Allergy medications: Allegra FX, Claritin.
    • Topical treatments: Salonpas (pain relief patches), antiseptic creams.
    • Vitamins and supplements: Widely available in most pharmacies.
  • Restrictions: Some medications commonly available in other countries (e.g., strong antihistamines, codeine-based products) may not be sold OTC in Japan due to strict drug regulations.

Prescription Medications

  • Process: Prescriptions are required for stronger medications, including antibiotics, antidepressants, and certain painkillers. You must visit a doctor or clinic to obtain a prescription.
  • Filling Prescriptions: After receiving a prescription, take it to a pharmacy (often located near the clinic). The pharmacist will prepare the medication and provide instructions.
  • Note: Japanese prescriptions are typically valid for only a few days, so fill them promptly.

5. Costs of Medications

  • OTC Medications: Prices are generally affordable. For example:
    • Pain relievers: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,500.
    • Cold medicine: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ2,000.
    • Digestive aids: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,500.
  • Prescription Medications: Costs vary depending on the medication and whether you have health insurance.
    • With Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI): You typically pay 30% of the total cost.
    • Without insurance: Full price, which can be significantly higher.
  • Payment Methods: Most pharmacies accept cash, and many now accept credit cards or mobile payment apps like PayPay or Rakuten Pay.

6. Procedures for Purchasing Medicine

OTC Medications

  1. Browse or Ask for Help: Medications are often displayed on shelves, but pharmacists can assist you in finding the right product.
  2. Consultation: Pharmacists may ask about your symptoms to recommend the best product. Be prepared to describe your condition (in Japanese or with translation apps).
  3. Purchase: Pay at the counter.

Prescription Medications

  1. Visit a Doctor: Obtain a prescription from a clinic or hospital.
  2. Take the Prescription to a Pharmacy: Hand the prescription to the pharmacist. They will prepare the medication and explain how to take it.
  3. Health Insurance Card: If you have NHI, present your card to receive the discounted rate.
  4. Receive Instructions: Pharmacists often provide detailed instructions, sometimes with printed materials.

7. Special Services

English-Speaking Staff

  • Some larger pharmacies, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Tenjin or Hakata, may have English-speaking staff. Look for signs that say "English OK" or ask, "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?" (่‹ฑ่ชžใŒ่ฉฑใ›ใพใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ)".
  • Alternatively, use a translation app like Google Translate or Pocketalk to communicate.

Delivery Services

  • While not common, some pharmacies offer delivery services for prescription medications, especially for elderly or immobile patients. Inquire directly with the pharmacy.
  • Online pharmacies like Amazon Japan or Rakuten may deliver OTC medications, but prescription drugs cannot be delivered.

Medication Information in English

  • Some pharmacies provide medication leaflets in English. If not, you can ask the pharmacist to explain or use a translation app.

8. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Politeness: Pharmacists are highly professional and polite. Bowing and thanking them (e.g., "Arigatou gozaimasu") is appreciated.
  • Privacy: Pharmacists may ask about your symptoms discreetly. If youโ€™re uncomfortable, you can write down your symptoms or use a translation app.
  • Medication Packaging: Medications are often provided in individual doses, making them easy to use.
  • Drug Regulations: Japan has strict drug import and usage laws. If youโ€™re bringing medication from abroad, ensure it complies with Japanese regulations. Some medications (e.g., Adderall) are banned entirely.

9. Emergency and Late-Night Options

  • Emergency Pharmacies: In case of emergencies, hospitals like Kyushu University Hospital or Fukuoka Red Cross Hospital may have on-site pharmacies.
  • Late-Night Pharmacies: Check for 24-hour drugstores in busy areas like Hakata or Tenjin. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart also stock basic OTC medications (e.g., pain relievers, cold medicine).

10. Useful Phrases

Here are some helpful Japanese phrases for visiting a pharmacy:

  • Do you have medicine for [symptom]?
    • "[Symptom] no kusuri wa arimasu ka?" (e.g., "Kaze no kusuri wa arimasu ka?" for cold medicine)
  • I have a prescription.
    • "Shouhou-sen ga arimasu." (ๅ‡ฆๆ–น็ฎ‹ใŒใ‚ใ‚Šใพใ™)
  • How do I take this medicine?
    • "Kono kusuri wa dou nomimasu ka?" (ใ“ใฎ่–ฌใฏใฉใ†้ฃฒใฟใพใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ)
  • Do you speak English?
    • "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?" (่‹ฑ่ชžใŒ่ฉฑใ›ใพใ™ใ‹๏ผŸ)

11. Key Pharmacy Chains in Fukuoka

  • Matsumoto Kiyoshi: Known for a wide range of OTC medications and cosmetics.
  • Sugi Pharmacy: Offers prescription services and health consultations.
  • Tsuruha Drug: Large chain with a variety of health and beauty products.
  • Daikoku Drug: Affordable prices and often located in busy areas.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate the pharmacy system in Fukuoka, Japan. If you have any specific questions or concerns, feel free to ask!