kobe, Japan

Are common prescription medications available in Japan?

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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," commented one expat who made the move to Tokyo, Japan.

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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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"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," remarked another expat in Japan.

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Are common prescription medications available in Japan?

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Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
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