Identify the medicine accurately
Bring clear information rather than trying to identify a medicine by colour or a partial brand name. A doctor or pharmacist can explain which details are needed for a professional assessment.
- Brand name and active ingredient, as shown on the label.
- Strength and dosage form, such as tablet, inhaler or injection.
- The instructions on your current prescription.
- How much is left and the date you expect it to run out.
- Packaging, prescription or a recent medicine list from your usual provider.
Explain your location and departure date
Give the city where you are staying and your remaining travel dates when you ask for care. Tell the provider whether you can attend in person and whether the relevant records are available in English, Chinese or another language.
Ask when an assessment could take place and whether any pharmacy step fits your schedule. Availability of a medicine and suitability for you are separate questions.
Bring your existing prescription as information
An existing prescription helps explain your current treatment. Ask the Japanese medical institution what further assessment it needs and whether it requires an in-person visit. Do not change the dose or substitute a different product based only on a website or a similar-looking package.
Before a future trip: check Japan's medicine-entry rules
Japan has personal medicine-import rules that depend on the substance, quantity and form. Check the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's current guidance before travelling, especially where advance permission may be needed. A rule about bringing your own supply is different from arranging a prescription in Japan.
Confirm assessment, pharmacy and follow-up separately
Ask for the consultation cost and how any prescription and pharmacy arrangements would work. Tell the provider how much time remains before you leave Japan and ask how to continue with your usual clinician after the trip.
Questions people ask
Can I get the exact same brand in Japan?
Do not assume that the same brand, strength or formulation is available. Give the active ingredient and packaging information to the doctor or pharmacist so they can assess the options.
Can my foreign prescription guarantee a refill?
No. It is useful medical information, but the receiving clinician must decide what assessment and prescribing, if any, are appropriate.
Should I wait until the last tablet before making an inquiry?
Include your remaining supply and departure date as early as you can. This gives the provider the information needed to discuss appointment and pharmacy timing.