Guide to Bringing Medicines into Japan
Complete medication import requirements and restrictions
Last Updated: November 2025| Category | Examples | Status in Japan | Notes & Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADHD & Stimulants | Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine | ❌ Prohibited | All amphetamines & methylphenidate are banned. Cannot be brought in even with prescription. |
| Herbal Medicines (Traditional Chinese/Kampo) | Ephedra, Cannabis-derived products | ❌ Prohibited | Strictly banned, even if legal in other countries. |
| Anxiety & Sleep (Benzodiazepines & Hypnotics) | Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, Ambien | ⚠️ Restricted | Classified as psychotropics. Up to 1 month's supply allowed with prescription + doctor's letter. Yakkan Shoumei may be required. |
| Strong Painkillers (Opioids/Narcotics) | Oxycodone, Morphine, Hydrocodone, Fentanyl, Codeine | ⚠️ Restricted | Require special narcotics permit from Japan's Narcotics Control Department in addition to Yakkan Shoumei. |
| Cold & Allergy Medicines (OTC) | Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra | ⚠️ Restricted | Medicines with >10% pseudoephedrine are banned. Antihistamines generally fine. |
| Cough Syrups (with Codeine) | Codeine-based syrups | ⚠️ Restricted | Strongly regulated; may require Yakkan Shoumei or narcotics clearance. |
| Antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs/TCAs) | Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, Cymbalta, Amitriptyline | ✅ Allowed | Generally permitted in 1-month supply. Larger quantities → Yakkan Shoumei. Carry doctor's letter. |
| Common Painkillers (Non-narcotics) | Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, Naproxen | ✅ Allowed | Up to 2 months' supply without issue. |
| Antibiotics | Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin | ✅ Allowed | Up to 1-month supply. Prescription + doctor's note recommended. |
| Asthma Inhalers | Ventolin, Symbicort | ✅ Allowed | Carry prescription/doctor's letter. Larger supply → Yakkan Shoumei. |
| Diabetes Treatments | Insulin pens, Metformin, Glucose monitoring kits | ✅ Allowed | Must be for personal use. Prescription required. Yakkan Shoumei if over 1-month supply. |
| Heart & Blood Pressure Medicines | Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, Statins | ✅ Allowed | Generally no issue for 1-month supply. Over 1 month → Yakkan Shoumei. |
| Hormonal Treatments | Birth control pills, HRT (estrogen/testosterone) | ✅ Allowed | Up to 1 month without Yakkan Shoumei. More requires Yakkan Shoumei. |
| Medical Devices | Insulin pumps, CPAP machines | ✅ Allowed | Allowed if clearly for personal use. Accompanying documents recommended. |
| Supplements & Vitamins | Multivitamins, Fish oil, Herbal remedies | ✅ Allowed | Reasonable personal quantities only. Must be in original packaging. |
Important Notes
- If you're unsure whether your medication is restricted, check with Japan's Ministry of Health or let MedicTranslate handle the translation and application process.
- Always carry medicines in original packaging with your doctor's letter translated into Japanese.
- Please note: The above table may change as regulations might change, always look at the main website for up-to-date information.
Need Help with Yakkan Shoumei Applications?
MedicTranslate specializes in translating medical documents and handling Yakkan Shoumei applications for bringing medicines into Japan. Our expert team ensures accurate translations and proper documentation for your medication needs.
Get Professional Help »Important Medical & Legal Disclaimer
No Medical Advice: The information provided on this page regarding prohibited medications (such as Stimulants, Psychotropics, and Opioids) is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your primary care physician regarding your specific medical needs before travel.
No Legal Advice: While MedicTranslate strives to keep this information up-to-date with current Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) regulations, laws concerning drug imports can change without notice. This guide is not a substitute for official legal consultation.
Liability: MedicTranslate is providing administrative support. We are not liable for confiscations or legal issues arising from the personal importation of medication. We strongly recommend verifying all medications with the nearest Japanese Embassy or Consulate before departure.
Source Reference: Information based on guidelines from the Narcotics Control Department (NCD) of Japan.