Can You Bring Medicine Abroad? Cold Pills, Sleeping Pills and Japan's Customs Rules
Which medicines you can bring into Japan, how much, which ingredients are banned, and when you need an import certificate (Yunyu Kakunin-sho). About 7 min read · Updated 2026-11-01
A medicine that is normal at home can be restricted abroad. Japan is the most common question, so we cover it first, then give a method that works for other countries.
Note: medicine rules are detailed and change. This is our summary, not an official document or medical advice. Check with Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare and your doctor before you go.
The basic rules for Japan
- Prescription medicine for personal use: generally up to a 1-month supply without special procedures.
- Over-the-counter medicine and vitamins: generally up to 2 months.
- More than that needs a Yunyu Kakunin-sho (import certificate), which can take weeks, so apply before leaving.
- Keep medicine in the original labelled packaging.
Watch out for
- Pseudoephedrine, found in many foreign cold remedies, is restricted.
- Some products containing dextromethorphan, diphenoxylate or phenylephrine are also flagged.
- Stimulant medicines, including some ADHD drugs, are prohibited even with a prescription.
- Narcotics such as morphine, codeine and oxycodone need advance permission, applied at least 14 days before travel.
- Sleep and sedative drugs have ingredient limits.
- CBN has been prohibited since 1 June 2026.
If you take regular medication
Carry a copy of the prescription, a doctor's letter in English (condition, drug names, doses, signature), and the original packaging in your hand luggage.
Other countries
Rules differ; the UAE and Singapore, for example, are strict about certain ingredients. Search "bringing medicine" on the destination's customs or health authority site, email the embassy if unsure, and keep original packaging and an English doctor's note.
Our take
Do not overpack "just in case". Count the days, keep packaging and paperwork, and buy local over-the-counter medicine if in doubt.
FAQ
Does a prescription let me bring anything?
No. Some medicines, such as stimulants, are banned even with a prescription.
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