Bringing Medicine into Japan

Japanese Law on Medication.

Japanese Government Information

Japanese law on medication and how they treat people who have illegal substances in Japan is very different than in the United States. Failure to comply with Japanese law may result in being arrested or detained.

PLEASE CAREFULLY READ the following Japanese Government's website for details:

Excerpt From Embassy of the United States in Tokyo, Japan

"Over-The-Counter Medicines"

It is illegal to bring into Japan some over-the-counter medicines commonly used in the United States, including inhalers and some allergy and sinus medications. Specifically, products that contain stimulants (medicines that contain Pseudoephedrine, such as Actifed, Sudafed, and Vicks inhalers), or Codeine are prohibited if it contains more than allowed quantity of stimulant raw materials. According to Japanese law, up to a two-months' supply of allowable over-the-counter medication and up to a two-months' supply of allowable vitamins can be brought into Japan duty-free.

Prescription Medications

Heroin, cocaine, MDMA, opium, cannabis (marijuana), stimulant drugs including some prescription medications such as Adderall, and including some medications available over-the-counter in the U.S. are prohibited in Japan.  There are no exceptions in bringing these prohibited medications into Japan, even if the medication is legally obtained outside of Japan.  The import of stimulant drugs such as methamphetamines and amphetamines in particular are strictly prohibited, even when accompanied by a customs declaration and a copy of the prescription. Japanese customs officials or police can detain travelers importing prohibited items. Japanese customs officials do not make on-the-spot "humanitarian" exceptions for medicines that are prohibited in Japan. 

Up to one month's supply of allowable prescription medicine (by Japanese law) can be brought into Japan. Travelers should bring a copy of their doctor's prescription as well as a letter stating the purpose of the drug."

Please check Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare of Japan's website : https://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/policy/health-medical/pharmaceuticals/01.html for details about carrying prescription and/or non-prescription medication to Japan and to confirm whether a particular medication is legal to bring to Japan. Please also consult your physician about your medication. 

If you are planning to go to Japan, please schedule an appointment with MIT Health's Travel Clinic at least three to four month before your departure. They are a great resource and can provide valuable guidance.