This section is for informational reference only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Costs, insurance rules, and administrative systems may change over time — please confirm the latest details with the relevant medical institution, municipal office, or immigration authority. If you notice anything outdated or inaccurate, we welcome your feedback and will keep this updated.

Buying OTC Medicine

Finding a pharmacist

薬剤師さんはいますか？

やくざいしさんはいますか？

Excuse me, is there a pharmacist available?

Look for a white coat and name badge, and choose a somewhat larger drugstore. If you can't spot a pharmacist, just ask this directly.

Pointing to your symptoms and providing background information

Point out the matching symptom terms to the pharmacist — this is faster and less error-prone than describing things verbally; see the symptom pointer glossary for the specific term list. After that, share background information (allergy history / whether you're pregnant or breastfeeding / other medications you're taking / underlying conditions). Once you've paid and received the medication, follow the pharmacist's instructions on dosage and usage exactly.

If your symptoms persist or don't improve after taking the medication, it's best to see a medical professional rather than continuing to rely on self-purchased medication over the long term.

What to do if you lose or run out of your regular medication

Prescription-only medications (like blood pressure or blood sugar medication) are strictly prohibited by Japanese law from being sold without a prescription — drugstores cannot make an "emergency exception" and sell them to you. If you lose or run out of your regular medication, you'll need to see a doctor to get a replacement prescription.

薬を失くしてしまいました。この成分と同じ、または代わりになる日本の薬を処方していただけますか？

くすりをなくしてしまいました。このせいぶんとおなじ、またはかわりになるにほんのくすりをしょほうしていただけますか？

I lost my medication — could you please prescribe a Japanese equivalent based on this ingredient?

You can bring a photo of the original medication box to show the doctor.