Tokyo

1. Types of Pharmacies in Tokyo

Pharmacies in Tokyo are categorized into two main types:

a. Drugstores (ドラッグストア, "Doraggu Sutoa")

• These are retail stores that sell over-the-counter (OTC) medications, health and beauty products, cosmetics, and daily necessities.
• Examples: Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Tomod’s, and Sun Drug.
• Drugstores often have a pharmacy counter where you can consult with a licensed pharmacist for OTC medications.

b. Prescription Pharmacies (調剤薬局, "Chōzai Yakkyoku")

• These are specialized pharmacies where you can fill prescriptions issued by a doctor.
• They focus on prescription medications and may not carry a wide range of OTC products.
• Examples: Kusuri no Fukutaro, Sugi Pharmacy, and Daikoku Drug (some branches also handle prescriptions).

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2. Common Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

In Japan, many medications that are OTC in other countries may require a prescription. However, the following are commonly available OTC medications in Tokyo:

a. Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers

• Loxonin S: A popular pain reliever for headaches, menstrual pain, and muscle pain.
• Bufferin: A mild pain reliever and fever reducer.

b. Cold and Flu Medications

• Pabron Gold A: A widely used cold medicine for symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and fever.
• Eve A: Effective for headaches and cold-related symptoms.

c. Digestive Aids

• Seirogan: A herbal remedy for diarrhea and stomach issues.
• Ohta’s Isan: A powder for indigestion and heartburn.

d. Allergy Medications

• Allegra FX: An antihistamine for hay fever and allergies.
• Contac: A cold and allergy medication.

e. Topical Medications

• Salonpas: Pain relief patches for muscle aches.
• Muhi: An anti-itch cream for insect bites and skin irritation.

f. Eye Drops

• Rohto: A popular brand offering a range of eye drops for dryness, redness, and fatigue.

g. Vitamins and Supplements

• Widely available in drugstores, including brands like DHC and FANCL.

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3. Prescription Process

If you need prescription medication in Tokyo, here’s how the process works:

a. Visit a Doctor

• You must first consult a doctor at a clinic or hospital. Many clinics in Tokyo cater to foreigners and offer English-speaking services.
• After the consultation, the doctor will issue a prescription (処方箋, "Shohōsen").

b. Filling the Prescription

• Take the prescription to a Chōzai Yakkyoku (prescription pharmacy).
• The pharmacist will prepare the medication and provide instructions on how to take it.
• Keep in mind that prescriptions in Japan are valid for only a few days, so fill them promptly.

c. Medication Packaging

• Prescription medications are often provided in individual doses, pre-packaged in small sachets for convenience.

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4. Costs

• OTC Medications: Prices vary but are generally affordable. For example, a box of Loxonin S costs around ¥700–¥1,000.
• Prescription Medications: Costs depend on the medication and whether you have health insurance.
  • Without insurance, a doctor’s consultation can cost ¥5,000–¥10,000, and prescription medications can range from ¥1,000–¥5,000 or more.
  • With Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI), you typically pay 30% of the total cost.

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5. Operating Hours

• Drugstores: Most are open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though some in busy areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya may stay open later.
• Prescription Pharmacies: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays, with limited hours on weekends. Many are closed on Sundays and public holidays.
• 24-Hour Pharmacies: Rare but available in major areas. Some convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, Lawson) stock basic OTC medications for emergencies.

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6. Cultural Considerations

• Pharmacist Consultation: Pharmacists in Japan are highly trained and will often ask detailed questions about your symptoms before recommending medication. Be prepared to describe your condition clearly.
• Language Barrier: While some pharmacists speak English, it’s not guaranteed. Carrying a translation app or a written note in Japanese can be helpful.
• Medication Names: Brand names may differ from those in your home country. If you need a specific medication, bring the generic name or a photo of the packaging.
• Medication Restrictions: Japan has strict regulations on certain medications. For example:
  • Pseudoephedrine (found in some cold medicines) is restricted.
  • Strong painkillers like codeine may require special permission.
  • Always check Japan’s medication import rules if you’re bringing medication from abroad.

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7. Helpful Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

• Carry a Basic First Aid Kit: Include common medications for headaches, colds, and stomach issues to avoid frequent pharmacy visits.
• Use Multilingual Services: Some pharmacies, like Matsumoto Kiyoshi, offer multilingual support via tablets or staff.
• Health Insurance: If you’re staying long-term, enroll in Japan’s National Health Insurance (NHI) to reduce medical costs.
• Emergency Numbers: In case of a medical emergency, dial 119 for an ambulance. For non-emergency medical advice, you can contact the Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL) at 03-5774-0992.
• Apps and Websites:
  • Use apps like Google Translate or Yomiwa for real-time translation of medication labels.
  • Websites like Japan Healthcare Info (JHI) provide lists of English-speaking clinics and pharmacies.

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8. Key Phrases in Japanese

• "Do you have medicine for [symptom]?"
  [Symptom]の薬はありますか？
  ([Symptom] no kusuri wa arimasu ka?)

• "I have a prescription."
  処方箋があります。
  (Shohōsen ga arimasu.)

• "How should I take this medication?"
  この薬はどうやって飲めばいいですか？
  (Kono kusuri wa dō yatte nomeba ii desu ka?)

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By understanding the pharmacy system and cultural nuances in Tokyo, you can confidently access the medications you need. Whether you’re a visitor or a new resident, this guide should help you navigate the process with ease.