Hi, I am moving to japan for 8 months to do some contracting work and I have a serious question regarding medication. I am taking an anti-depressant called efexor (venaflaxine Hydrocloride), I just wanted to know if this medecine requires a prescription or not? can I just get it over the counter in Japan?
2006-10-02 12:15:23 · 3 answers · asked by Bader 2 in Travel ➔ Asia Pacific ➔ Japan
No, you need a prescription to get SSRIs in Japan. Your alternatives are to import your own (you are allowed a three month supply in each shipment) or go to a doctor and get a prescription. If you are eligible for national health insurance it will pay for most of it. The premiums are very low for your first year in the country, so it's a pretty good deal.
2006-10-02 16:35:21 · answer #1 · answered by michinoku2001 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not sure, but what I did was bring my max prscription meds for my allergies. When my supply ran out, I brought one of the bottles to my local doc and asked for a refill. I explained the reason and he prescribed more meds for me. If you are moving to Tokyo, Dr. Leo King and the King Clinic in Omotesando (Harajuku eki, near Meiji Shrine) is an American and his staff speaks English. Here is alink to medical resources in the Tokyo area.
As I think about it, you state 8 months as your length of stay. Sounds like you will be registered for an extended business trip visa, which means you will have access and use of the health care system. If in case, you will be just entering for 90 days and then leave and return, you will probably be using your toursit visa, which means you will have to pay cash for any medical appointments. You may want to check on that aspect before you come over.
Another option are 3rd party shippers who will forward packages sent to them. This is hit and miss for some business will not ship to a frieight forwarding company or 3rd party.
Last bu not least if family or friends who will ship meds to you. We ask family members back in the USA to send typical OTC meds that are not sold OTC in Japan.
2006-10-02 13:23:37 · answer #2 · answered by wuzaracer 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
why don't you just order it online and then get the reffils all the time ? for example at http://www.rx-meds.biz .. you just make your first purchase, and then you ghet the refills as long as you want it
2006-10-02 12:21:02 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋