Are common prescription medications available in Japan?
When we asked expats in Japan if common prescription medications are available in Japan, they wrote...
"There are pharmacies in every neighborhood and they are easily accessible and reasonably priced. However, being in Japan, some medications may not be available or provided. Therefore, check which medications are available before moving to Japan," explained one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Japan. Many of the same medications that are available in other countries are also available in Japan, although they may have different brand names. In addition, some medications that are not available in other countries may be available in Japan. In order to obtain a prescription medication in Japan, a patient must visit a doctor and receive a prescription. The prescription can then be filled at a pharmacy," said another in Japan.

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With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
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Are common prescription medications available in Japan?
If you live in Japan, newcomers to Japan would love to hear your answer to this question: