Sendai

1. Overview of Pharmacies in Sendai

Pharmacies in Sendai, as in the rest of Japan, are known as "kusuriya" (薬屋) or "yakkyoku" (薬局). They are well-organized, clean, and provide a wide range of services, including prescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, health products, and even some daily necessities. Pharmacies are an essential part of the healthcare system in Japan, and they are generally easy to find in urban areas like Sendai.

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2. Types of Pharmacies

There are two main types of pharmacies in Sendai:

• Dispensing Pharmacies (調剤薬局, Chōzai Yakkyoku): These are specialized in filling prescriptions issued by doctors. They are often located near hospitals or clinics.
• Retail Pharmacies (ドラッグストア, Drugstores): These sell OTC medications, supplements, cosmetics, and household items. Some larger chains also have sections for prescription medications.

Popular pharmacy chains in Sendai include:

• Matsumoto Kiyoshi (マツモトキヨシ): A well-known drugstore chain with a wide selection of OTC products and cosmetics.
• Sugi Pharmacy (スギ薬局): Offers both prescription and OTC medications, as well as health consultations.
• Tsuruha Drug (ツルハドラッグ): A large chain with a focus on health and beauty products.
• Cocokara Fine (ココカラファイン): Another major chain with a variety of health-related products.

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3. Services Offered

Pharmacies in Sendai provide the following services:

• Prescription Filling: Bring your prescription (処方箋, shohōsen) from a doctor to a dispensing pharmacy. The pharmacist will prepare your medication and explain how to take it.
• Over-the-Counter Medications: Common medications for colds, allergies, pain relief, and digestive issues are available without a prescription.
• Health Consultations: Pharmacists are trained to provide advice on minor health concerns and recommend appropriate medications.
• Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Many pharmacies stock skincare, makeup, and hygiene products.
• Supplements and Vitamins: A wide range of health supplements is available.
• Medical Supplies: Items like thermometers, masks, and first-aid kits are commonly sold.

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4. Opening Hours

• Dispensing Pharmacies: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Some may close earlier on weekends or holidays.
• Retail Pharmacies/Drugstores: These often have longer hours, with many open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Some larger stores, especially in central areas like Sendai Station, may operate until midnight or even 24/7.

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5. Costs

• Prescription Medications: Costs are generally affordable, especially if you are enrolled in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) system, which covers 70% of medical expenses. Without insurance, prices can vary depending on the medication.
• OTC Medications: Prices for common OTC drugs range from ¥500 to ¥2,000 depending on the product.
• Consultation Fees: Pharmacists do not charge for consultations, but you may need to pay a small dispensing fee when filling a prescription.

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6. How to Fill Prescriptions

1. Visit a Doctor: In Japan, most prescription medications require a doctor’s consultation. Visit a clinic or hospital to obtain a prescription.
2. Find a Dispensing Pharmacy: Look for a pharmacy with a 調剤薬局 (Chōzai Yakkyoku) sign. These are often located near medical facilities.
3. Present Your Prescription: Hand your prescription to the pharmacist. If you have health insurance, show your insurance card as well.
4. Wait for Preparation: The pharmacist will prepare your medication and explain the dosage and usage. This may take 10–20 minutes.
5. Pay for the Medication: Payment can usually be made in cash or by credit card.

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7. Language Barriers

• English Support: While many pharmacists in Sendai may not speak fluent English, some larger pharmacies, especially near tourist areas or Sendai Station, have staff who can assist in English or provide written instructions in multiple languages.
• Translation Apps: If language is a concern, consider using a translation app like Google Translate or a specialized medical translation app to communicate your needs.
• Medication Names: Bring the generic name of any medication you need, as brand names may differ in Japan.

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8. Cultural Practices

• Politeness: Pharmacists in Japan are highly professional and polite. It’s customary to bow slightly when greeting or thanking them.
• Medication Packaging: Medications are often provided in individual doses, with clear instructions on how and when to take them.
• Privacy: Pharmacists may ask about your symptoms or medical history to ensure the medication is appropriate. This is done discreetly and respectfully.

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9. Locations of Reputable Pharmacies in Sendai

Here are some recommended pharmacies in central Sendai:

• Matsumoto Kiyoshi Sendai Station Store (マツモトキヨシ 仙台駅店):
  • Location: Inside Sendai Station, convenient for travelers.
  • Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
• Sugi Pharmacy Sendai Aoba-dori Store (スギ薬局 仙台青葉通店):
  • Location: Near Aoba-dori Ichibancho Station.
  • Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
• Tsuruha Drug Sendai Chuo Store (ツルハドラッグ 仙台中央店):
  • Location: Close to Sendai City Hall.
  • Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Aeon Pharmacy (イオン薬局):
  • Location: Inside Aeon Mall Sendai.
  • Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

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10. Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

• Bring Your Medical Records: If you have a chronic condition, bring a translated copy of your medical history and a list of medications you take.
• Emergency Medications: If you need emergency medication, look for a 24-hour pharmacy or visit the emergency department of a hospital.
• National Health Insurance (NHI): If you’re an immigrant, enrolling in NHI will significantly reduce your medical costs, including prescription medications.
• Drug Restrictions: Some medications available in your home country may be restricted in Japan. Check Japan’s drug import regulations before bringing medications into the country.

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By following this guide, you should be able to navigate Sendai’s pharmacy system with ease. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!