Local Laws and Customs - Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medicines

The use or possession of Vicks inhalers and some other common prescription and over-the-counter medicines (e.g. for allergies and sinus problems or even certain mild painkillers, such as those containing codeine) are banned under Japan’s strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. Customs officials may not be sympathetic if you claim ignorance about these medicines. If in any doubt about customs procedures for such items, you should check with the nearest Japanese Embassy before visiting Japan.

I can't find any other information on this anywhere! Is it ok to take non-codeine headache tablets with me, or would you advise not packing any medication and buying whatever may be needed in Japan?

Thanks.

It sounds like non-codeine tablets would be OK but if I were you I would contact the embassy with the name of any products you plan to take, as the FCO site suggests.

I found these contact details on the embassy website - emailing them is probably simplest.

Telephone enquiries 020 7465 6543 / 6544

Email info@ld.mofa.go.jp

Kind regards,

Olly, your editor