Medicines Available and Not Available at Japanese Pharmacies
The handling of medicines at pharmacies in Japan may differ from other countries. Especially in Japan, medicines that are easily available over the counter in other countries may require a doctor’s prescription. This prescription system is established as part of Japan’s healthcare system to support the appropriate use of medicines and health management.
It is important to have accurate knowledge about the handling of medicines that require a prescription in Japan. In this article, I would like to explain in detail about medicines that are not available over the counter at Japanese pharmacies and the types of medicines that require a prescription.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Agents
In Japan, oral antibiotics and antifungal agents require a prescription.
These medicines need to be prescribed after visiting a hospital or doctor for examination. The inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the risk of side effects. Therefore, doctors prescribe antibiotics only when they evaluate the patient’s symptoms and condition and determine the necessity.
As for topical agents, there are over-the-counter antibacterial and antifungal agents available in forms such as ointments, creams, and lotions.
Antiviral Drugs
In Japan, prescription is also required for oral antiviral drugs. These include drugs used for viral infections such as influenza and herpes. Antiviral drugs can suppress the replication of viruses and help alleviate symptoms.
Antiviral drugs are effective only against specific viral infections, and incorrect diagnosis or improper use can not only fail to achieve the desired effects but also increase the risk of side effects.
In Japanese medical institutions, antiviral drugs are prescribed only after a proper diagnosis of viral infections, ensuring that patients’ health and safety are maintained and appropriate treatment for viral infections is guaranteed.
For antiviral drugs, especially for herpes, there are over-the-counter ointments available.
Medicines for Lifestyle Diseases
Medicines used for the treatment of lifestyle-related diseases generally require a prescription. For example, oral hypoglycemic agents and insulin injections are prescribed for the treatment of diabetes.
These medicines are necessary to control blood glucose levels, but a doctor’s diagnosis and monitoring are essential for determining the appropriate dosage and administration method. Similarly, medicines used for the treatment of dyslipidemia and hyperuricemia also require a prescription. Lipid-lowering drugs and uric acid-lowering drugs are prescribed to adjust cholesterol and uric acid levels, but a doctor’s specialized knowledge and judgment are required to select the appropriate drug based on the patient’s condition and physique. Colchicine, which is used during gout attacks, also requires a doctor’s prescription.
Additionally, antihypertensive drugs used for the treatment of hypertension also require a prescription. The treatment of hypertension is determined individually based on the patient’s blood pressure and the presence of complications. In order to select the appropriate drug and dosage, doctors must thoroughly evaluate the patient’s health status and adjust as necessary. For these reasons, the use of medicines for lifestyle-related diseases requires a doctor’s diagnosis and prescription. In Japan’s healthcare system, emphasis is placed on the appropriate use and management of medicines to ensure the health and safety of patients.
Emergency Contraceptive Pills
Emergency contraceptive pills are also one of the medicines that require a prescription in Japan. Emergency contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours after intercourse, but a doctor’s consultation and prescription are necessary to provide information about their effectiveness and side effects and ensure their appropriate use.
Selling of emergency contraceptive pills at pharmacies is generally not permitted under Japanese law. Currently, there are hospitals that prescribe emergency contraceptive pills online. However, only certain pharmacies that have received specific training are able to dispense the medicine. In such cases, the individual must visit the pharmacy in person and take the medicine in front of the pharmacist.
The pharmacists at BLEZ Pharmacy have completed the necessary training and are able to handle the prescription and dispensing of emergency contraceptive pills online.
Other Prescription-Required Medicines
Various types of medicines, such as inhalants for asthma, cardiovascular drugs, anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, antitumor drugs, melatonin and sleeping pills, and psychotropic drugs, are designated as prescription-required medicines. However, it is very difficult to grasp all of them.
As pharmacists, we will immediately determine whether the pharmacy can handle them or if a visit to the hospital is necessary.
If you are having trouble, please consult with us first, and we will do our best to answer your questions.
