medicines
Over-the-Counter Drug
市販薬 (Shihan-yaku)
Medication that can be purchased at a pharmacy or drugstore without a physician's prescription. Japan classifies OTC drugs into three categories based on risk: Class 1 (pharmacist consultation required), Class 2 (pharmacist available), and Class 3 (lower risk, self-selection allowed). Common OTC products include cold remedies, antihistamines, pain relievers, and digestive aids. Some OTC drugs in Japan differ in formulation or dose from equivalent products abroad.
Japan's large drugstore chains (matsumoto kiyoshi, welcia, tsuruha) stock extensive OTC medicine sections; staff are trained to advise on appropriate product selection.
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Over-the-Counter Drug |
| Japanese (日本語) | 市販薬 |
| Chinese (中文) | 非处方药 |
| Korean (한국어) | 일반의약품 |
| Portuguese | Medicamento de venda livre |
| Spanish | Medicamento de venta libre |
| Filipino | OTC na gamot |
| Thai | ยาที่ไม่ต้องมีใบสั่งแพทย์ |
| Vietnamese | Thuốc không cần kê đơn |
| Romanization | Shihan-yaku |
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Read the guide →Last reviewed: September 2026