What medications are not allowed in Japan?

Medicines that are hallucinogenic, narcotic, and/or psychotropic in nature will be confiscated, except in extenuating circumstances where prior approval has been obtained (e.g., a cancer patient taking a type of medication that has a high percentage of pain killer; these cases are treated on a case by case basis).



Japan has some of the strictest medication laws in the world, and many common Western drugs are strictly prohibited. In 2026, it is vital to know that stimulant medications used for ADHD, such as Adderall or Dexedrine, are strictly illegal; you cannot bring them into the country even with a doctor's prescription. Other ADHD medications like Ritalin or Concerta are allowed but require a specific "Yunyu Kakunin-sho" (import certificate) if you bring more than a 30-day supply. Furthermore, many over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu medicines that contain Pseudoephedrine or Codeine (like some versions of Sudafed or Vicks) are also banned. If you are caught with prohibited substances at customs, you face the risk of detention, fines, or deportation. For "permitted" prescription drugs (like antidepressants or birth control), you can bring up to a one-month supply without paperwork; for more than that, you must apply for the Yunyu Kakunin-sho online before you travel. Always carry your medications in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription. CBD products are also highly restricted and must be confirmed to have 0% THC and be derived from stalks or seeds only.

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Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

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Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

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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.

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OTC melatonin has been banned for years in the United Kingdom (UK), European Union, Japan, Australia and most recently Canada. Exogenous melatonin is not outlawed by these countries but regarded as a medicine, available only by prescription.

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You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

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Entry & Exit: You must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business visa free stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you are staying in Japan.

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Ibuprofen and dexibuprofen medicines have been authorised in the EU through national approval procedures and have been available for many years under a wide range of trade names. They are available on prescription and over the counter.

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When drugs are confiscated in airports, TSA officers usually refer to law enforcement to secure the confiscated substances and store them in a warehouse known as a crime laboratory. Here, the drugs will be tested, organized, and shelved for trials.

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Ask your doctor for a letter on their letterhead explaining your medical treatment and necessity, translated into the host country's language, if necessary. Pack enough medication to last the length of your trip and no more than personal-use quantities.

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