How to Treat Stomach Spasms in Japan Without No-Spa

Introduction

First of all, let me introduce myself! My name is Zsófi, and I am a third-year pharmacy student at Semmelweis University. I am currently completing my four-week summer internship in Japan, where I am not only gaining professional experience but also trying to immerse myself in Japanese culture and explore this fascinating country.

Before my trip, I tried to make sure everything was in order: I gathered all the necessary documents, booked my flights and accommodation, and – at least mentally – prepared myself for everything from earthquakes to tsunamis and just about every natural disaster imaginable. In short, I did everything I could to ensure a smooth and worry-free stay in Japan.

Introduction 2.0

Perhaps it is an occupational habit, but packing my medicines took surprisingly long. It made me wonder whether the medications I usually rely on at home – such as No-Spa, the Hungarian-developed antispasmodic containing drotaverine, or other medicines that are readily available in Hungarian pharmacies – would also be available here in Japan.

The good news is that there is no need to worry! In this post, I would like to show you that Japan offers many excellent alternatives, so even for those “difficult days,” you can easily find suitable over-the-counter medications throughout the country.

Buscopan and Loxonin Premium S Fine

Let’s take a closer look at what these medicines have to offer. The following summary is based on the official patient information leaflets, and I hope it will help anyone looking for a reliable solution while travelling in Japan.

Buscopan:

Features:

Buscopan contains scopolamine butylbromide, an anticholinergic agent with antispasmodic properties. It reduces gastrointestinal motility, decreases gastric acid secretion, and lowers pressure inside the urinary bladder. These effects help relieve smooth muscle spasms and the pain caused by excessive tension in the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and bladder.

Indications

• painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
• gastrointestinal spasms and conditions associated with increased bowel motility, including spasms related to gastric or duodenal ulcers
• oesophageal or pyloric spasms, gastritis, enteritis and intestinal colic
• spastic constipation and functional diarrhoea
• cholecystitis, cholangitis, gallstones, biliary dyskinesia and symptoms following gallbladder removal
• urinary tract stones and cystitis

Dosage and administration:

For adults (people aged 15 years or older), the usual dose is 1–2 tablets, taken 3–5 times daily with cold or lukewarm water. The dosage may be adjusted depending on age and the severity of symptoms. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Buscopan if:

• you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to any medicine or food;
• you have haemorrhagic colitis, glaucoma, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, heart disease, paralytic ileus or hyperthyroidism;
• you are pregnant or breastfeeding;
• you are taking any other medication.

Buscopan may cause temporary visual disturbances. Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medicine.

Loxonin S Premium fine

Features:

Loxonin Premium S Fine is a pain reliever and fever reducer containing loxoprofen sodium hydrate, providing fast relief even from severe menstrual pain. It also contains dried peony extract and hesperidin, ingredients that target the underlying mechanism of menstrual cramps and help relieve the tightening pain in the lower abdomen. In addition, it contains magnesium aluminometasilicate, which helps protect the stomach lining, and it contains no ingredients that cause drowsiness.

Indications:

• relief of menstrual pain
• headache, toothache, pain after tooth extraction, sore throat and earache
• lower back pain, joint pain, neuralgia, muscle pain and shoulder stiffness
• pain caused by bruises, fractures, sprains and other injuries
• fever reduction during illnesses accompanied by chills and fever

Dosage:

For adults (people aged 15 years or older), the usual dose is 2 tablets once or twice daily, with at least 4 hours between doses, taken with cold or lukewarm water. The dosage may be adjusted depending on age and symptom severity. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:

Do not use this medicine if:

• you have previously had an allergic reaction to this medicine or any of its ingredients;
• you have experienced an asthma attack after taking this medicine or other pain relievers, fever reducers or cold medicines;
• you have stomach or duodenal ulcers, liver disease, kidney disease or heart disease;
• your doctor has diagnosed you with a blood disorder such as anaemia, a low platelet count or a low white blood cell count;
• you are within 12 weeks of your expected delivery date.

Before using this medicine in any of the above situations, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

While taking this medicine, avoid using other pain relievers, fever reducers, cold medicines or sedatives, and do not consume alcohol.

Conclusion

So, there’s really no need to worry! While these medicines certainly aren’t miracle cures, they are reliable, high-quality products that can be a great help when you need them. If you find yourself needing them while you’re in Japan, they’re readily available at many pharmacies – including BLEZ Pharmacy, where the friendly staff speak English, French, Japanese and Chinese and are more than happy to help you find the right product.

P.S.

Of course, during Japan’s intense summer heat, don’t forget about proper sun protection and staying well hydrated. If you’re looking for those essentials too, BLEZ Pharmacy in Asakusa has plenty of excellent options available.