2025年6月28日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年6月28日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Struggling With Gout in Japan? Colchicine Access Made Easy

If you’ve experienced a sudden gout flare while traveling in Japan, you’re not alone. The intense pain, swelling, and discomfort can be overwhelming—and what’s worse, many tourists are surprised to learn that Colchicine, a common medication for treating acute gout attacks overseas, is not available without a prescription in Japan. This often leads to a frustrating experience: searching pharmacy after pharmacy, only to be told, “You need to go to a hospital.” But when you’re in severe pain and far from home, that’s easier said than done. Why Colchicine Isn’t Sold Over the Counter in Japan In some countries, Colchicine can be purchased directly from a pharmacy for managing acute […]
2025年6月3日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年6月3日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Japan’s New OTC PPI: Pariet S vs. Nexium and Prilosec

If you suffer from acid reflux or frequent heartburn and are traveling in Japan, you might be wondering what treatment options are available over the counter. While Nexium (esomeprazole) and Prilosec (omeprazole) are well-known OTC proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) overseas, Japan has just introduced a new PPI medication to the market: Pariet S, containing rabeprazole. As of June 2, 2025, Pariet S became available as an OTC treatment—but it comes with a catch: you need to consult a pharmacist in person to purchase it. In this article, we’ll introduce Pariet S and explain how it compares to international PPI options. What Is Pariet S? Pariet S is Japan’s first over-the-counter […]
2025年5月26日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年5月26日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

How to Treat Hemorrhoids in Japan: OTC Solutions for Travelers

Dealing with hemorrhoids during travel can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. Whether you’re on a long flight, experiencing diet changes, or dealing with constipation from stress or unfamiliar food, hemorrhoid symptoms can strike at the worst times. If you’re used to products like Preparation H in the U.S., you might be wondering what options are available in Japan. One of the most popular and trusted hemorrhoid treatment brands in Japan is Boraginol (ボラギノール). In this article, we’ll compare Japanese and international options, focusing on easy-to-use forms like insertion-type ointments (suppositories) and fast-acting oral tablets. Topical Treatments: Boraginol vs. Preparation H For those dealing with external or internal hemorrhoids, Boraginol A Insertion […]
2025年5月17日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年5月17日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Top Japanese Anti-Itch & Rash Creams: Better Than Benadryl?

Skin troubles can happen anytime—especially when you’re traveling. Whether you’re exploring Japan’s countryside in summer or navigating busy city streets in winter, your skin may react to new environments, food, insects, or climate. Itching, redness, eczema, or allergic rashes can appear suddenly, and they’re the last thing you want to deal with while on vacation. Luckily, Japan has a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) creams that are both effective and easy to find in pharmacies. However, if you’re used to products like Benadryl Cream or Cortizone 10 back home, it might be hard to recognize which Japanese brands offer similar relief. In this guide, we’ll introduce some of the most […]
2025年4月19日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年4月19日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

How Tourists in Japan Can Manage Motion Sickness Without Dramamine

Motion sickness can strike during car rides, flights, or sea travel—often unexpectedly. While Dramamine is a go-to option in many countries, travelers in Japan may find different names and formulations on pharmacy shelves. At BLEZ Pharmacy, we offer a range of effective motion sickness remedies under the Semper (センパア) and Travelmin (トラベルミン) brands. This article compares these with the familiar Dramamine to help you make a confident choice. Overseas Favorite: Dramamine Dramamine, commonly available abroad, contains dimenhydrinate as its active ingredient. It works as an antihistamine to prevent and relieve symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. It’s widely trusted for short trips and long journeys alike. Japanese Alternatives: Semper & […]
2025年4月16日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年4月16日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Difflam vs. Japanese Sprays: How to Choose the Right One

If you suffer from sore throat or irritation, knowing your medication options is essential. In Australia, Difflam Anti-inflammatory Throat Spray is a popular OTC solution renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. In Japan, however, the approach to throat care differs—with products like NODOGLE Spray（のどぬーるスプレー） and Harenurse Spray（ハレナーススプレー） being widely used. This article compares these products, helping you choose the best option for your needs. Difflam Anti-inflammatory Throat Spray: An Overview Difflam contains benzydamine hydrochloride, a proven active ingredient that reduces inflammation, eases pain, and provides local anesthesia in the throat. Widely available in Australia, Difflam helps relieve sore throat symptoms caused by infections, irritation, or environmental factors. While […]
2025年4月12日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年4月14日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

The Best Over-the-Counter UTI Remedy in Japan

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common and uncomfortable health issue that can affect people of all ages. If you’re visiting or living in Japan and looking for UTI relief, you may wonder whether the same products you rely on abroad—like Azo—are available here. The reality is that Japan takes a different approach, especially when it comes to over-the-counter (OTC) options. In this article, we’ll introduce a traditional Japanese remedy called Jinsensan (腎仙散) and explain how it compares to international UTI relief products like Azo. What is Azo? In many countries, Azo is a popular OTC medication used to manage the symptoms of UTIs, such as pain, burning sensations, and […]
2025年4月9日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年4月9日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Understanding Voltaren Topical Medications in Japan: What You Need to Know

Voltaren (diclofenac) is a widely used anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief. While in many countries both topical and oral forms are available over the counter, Japan has specific regulations on its usage. If you’re looking for Voltaren in Japan, it’s essential to understand the different formulations available and their legal status. In this article, we’ll cover the topical forms of Voltaren in Japan and how they compare to international versions. Voltaren in Japan: Available Forms Unlike some countries where oral Voltaren is available without a prescription, Japan restricts oral diclofenac to prescription-only medications due to safety concerns. However, topical formulations are widely available in pharmacies. The main types of over-the-counter […]
2025年4月3日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年4月3日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Looking for Gaviscon in Japan? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you suffer from acid reflux or stomach discomfort, finding the right medication can make a significant difference. In Japan, Sucrate G (liquid medicine) and Sucrate Gastrointestinal (tablet medicine) are widely used to treat acid-related stomach issues. Meanwhile, in many other countries, Gaviscon is a well-known option. But how do these medications compare? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these treatments and help you choose the best option while in Japan. Understanding Acid Reflux and Stomach Protection Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort. Medications for acid-related issues typically work in three ways: Both Sucrate G and Gaviscon belong to […]
2025年4月2日 / 最終更新日時 : 2025年4月2日 BLEZ-ASAKUSA Find Japanese Medicine

Constipation in Japan? Here’s How to Find the Right Medication

Experiencing constipation while traveling or living abroad can be uncomfortable, especially when you can’t find the usual medication you rely on. If you’re accustomed to using Ex-Lax or other senna-based laxatives overseas, you may wonder what options are available in Japan. While product names and formulations might differ, Japan offers several alternatives with similar active ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between Japanese and international laxatives and help you choose the right one for your needs. Understanding Stimulant Laxatives Stimulant laxatives are commonly used to relieve occasional constipation. They work by stimulating the intestines, promoting bowel movements within a few hours of ingestion. The most widely used stimulant […]