Japanese pharmacies are popular with Malaysian travellers because they offer a wide selection of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and health products. Many are well-known for their quality, compact packaging and competitive prices.
However, not every medicine sold in Japan is suitable for everyone. Before purchasing, always read the label, follow the dosage instructions and check that the product can be legally brought back into Malaysia.
This guide covers some of the most popular Japanese OTC medicines, their typical uses, estimated prices and where to buy them.
Exchange Rate Used:
¥100 = RM3.00
Quick Answer
These are among the most popular OTC medicines Malaysian travellers buy in Japan.
| Product | Common Use | Approx. Price | Approx. RM |
|---|---|---|---|
| EVE A Tablets | Pain relief | ¥900–1,500 | RM27–45 |
| Rohto Eye Drops | Dry or tired eyes | ¥500–1,500 | RM15–45 |
| Salonpas | Muscle and joint pain | ¥800–1,800 | RM24–54 |
| Bufferin Premium | Pain relief | ¥1,000–2,000 | RM30–60 |
| Ohta’s Isan | Digestive discomfort | ¥800–1,500 | RM24–45 |
| Mentholatum Lip Balm | Dry lips | ¥300–700 | RM9–21 |
Always choose medicines that are appropriate for your needs and consult a healthcare professional if you have any medical conditions or take other medications.
Why Buy Medicines in Japan?
Many Malaysian travellers purchase Japanese OTC medicines because:
- Wide product selection.
- Competitive prices.
- Convenient packaging for travel.
- Easy to find in Japanese drugstores.
Remember that Japanese-language packaging may differ from products sold in Malaysia, so read instructions carefully.
Best Places to Buy Medicines
| Store | Good For |
|---|---|
| Matsumoto Kiyoshi | Largest OTC medicine selection |
| Sundrug | Competitive pricing |
| Welcia | Health and beauty products |
| Cocokarafine | Drugstore brands |
| Don Quijote | One-stop shopping with extended hours |
Prices may vary between stores, so compare if you’re buying multiple items.
1. EVE A Tablets
Typical Price:
¥900–1,500
Approximate RM:
RM27–45
Commonly Used For:
- Headaches
- Menstrual pain
- Toothache
- Mild muscle aches
Pros
- Popular with travellers.
- Compact packaging.
- Widely available.
Things to Consider
Do not exceed the recommended dosage. People with certain medical conditions or allergies should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Rohto Eye Drops
Typical Price:
¥500–1,500
Approximate RM:
RM15–45
Commonly Used For:
- Dry eyes
- Eye fatigue
- Irritation from long screen time
Popular Series:
- Rohto Lycee
- Rohto Z!
- Rohto Cool
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Salonpas
Typical Price:
¥800–1,800
Approximate RM:
RM24–54
Commonly Used For:
- Muscle aches
- Shoulder stiffness
- Back pain
- Joint discomfort
Available As:
- Patches
- Sprays
- Gels
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Bufferin Premium
Typical Price:
¥1,000–2,000
Approximate RM:
RM30–60
Commonly Used For:
- Headaches
- Fever
- General pain relief
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
5. Ohta’s Isan
Typical Price:
¥800–1,500
Approximate RM:
RM24–45
Commonly Used For:
- Indigestion
- Bloating
- Stomach discomfort after meals
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
6. Mentholatum Lip Balm
Typical Price:
¥300–700
Approximate RM:
RM9–21
Suitable For:
- Dry lips
- Winter travel
- Everyday use
Worth Buying?
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Best Medicines Under RM30
| Product | JPY | RM |
|---|---|---|
| Rohto Eye Drops | ¥600 | RM18 |
| Lip Balm | ¥400 | RM12 |
| Small Salonpas Pack | ¥700 | RM21 |
| Ohta’s Isan (small pack) | ¥900 | RM27 |
Example Shopping Budget
Budget RM300
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| EVE A Tablets | ¥1,200 |
| Rohto Eye Drops | ¥1,000 |
| Salonpas | ¥1,500 |
| Ohta’s Isan | ¥1,200 |
| Lip Balm | ¥500 |
| Vitamins | ¥2,000 |
| Total | ¥7,400 |
Approximate Cost:
RM222
Tax-Free Shopping Example
You purchase:
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Medicines | ¥8,000 |
| Vitamins | ¥4,000 |
| Total | ¥12,000 |
Approximate value:
¥12,000 = RM360
Estimated tax saving:
Around ¥1,200 (RM36) if your purchase qualifies under the retailer’s tax-free programme.
Tips for Malaysian Travellers
Buy Only What You Need
Avoid purchasing medicines in excessive quantities. Buy reasonable amounts for personal use.
Check Expiry Dates
Some medicines have shorter shelf lives than expected.
Read the Instructions
Japanese products may have different ingredients, strengths or dosage instructions compared with similar products sold in Malaysia.
Keep Medicines in Original Packaging
Do not remove tablets from their original packaging before returning to Malaysia.
This helps identify the product if customs officers have questions.
Malaysian Customs Considerations
Before buying medicines in Japan:
- Purchase only reasonable quantities for personal use.
- Keep receipts for your purchases.
- Leave medicines in their original packaging.
- Check the latest Malaysian Customs and Ministry of Health regulations if you’re unsure whether a product is allowed into Malaysia.
If you require prescription medication, make sure you understand the relevant import requirements before travelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Malaysians bring Japanese medicines back home?
Many OTC medicines for personal use can generally be brought back, but you should always check the latest Malaysian regulations before travelling.
Are Japanese medicines cheaper than Malaysia?
Some products are cheaper, while others may cost a similar amount. Tax-free shopping and promotions can improve the value.
Which store has the best selection?
Matsumoto Kiyoshi is one of the most popular choices, but Sundrug, Welcia and Don Quijote also stock a wide range of products.
Can I buy prescription medicine in Japan?
Prescription medicines require a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider in Japan. Tourists should not assume that medicines available in Malaysia can be purchased without a prescription in Japan.
Final Verdict
Japanese OTC medicines are popular among Malaysian travellers because of their quality, variety and convenience.
Products such as EVE A Tablets, Rohto Eye Drops, Salonpas and Ohta’s Isan are frequently purchased for personal use or as gifts for family members.
Before buying, compare prices between drugstores, carry your passport if you plan to claim tax-free shopping, and make sure any medicines you purchase comply with Malaysian import requirements. Buying only what you need and following the product instructions will help ensure a smooth and safe shopping experience.
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