Korean Job Discussion Forums

TOGirl · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Location: Seoul

I'm taking my Mom to Japan from Korea (Busan to Fukuoka by Ferry), and she mentioned reading that some meds are restricted.

I read that with prescriptions she should have a copy of her prescription or a letter from her doctor. And that tylenol with codeine is completely restricted.

Does anyone have any experience with taking these kinds of things into Japan?

Thanks

TOGirl · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Location: Seoul

Anyone, anyone?

Don't tell me none of you have ever been to Japan and not had some medication with you.

I'm guessing that if its in your checked luggage they aren't going to know?????

lawyertood · Posted: Mon Feb 20, 2006 5:06 pm Post subject:

I haven't personally had this problem but once met a guy at the Korean Consulate in Osaka who had lots of problems bringing anxiety medication into Japan. Perhaps you could check with the Japanese Embassy as to requirements. Consulate-General of Japan, 1147-11, Choryang-dong, Dong-ku, Busan, Republic of Korea. Tel:(82-51)465-5101~6 Fax:(82-51)464-1630

On a side note, I wonder how well the guy was able to perform as a teacher in Korea while suffering from anxiety attacks. Based on my impressions and his behavior at the consulate--not long.

Ekuboko · Joined: 22 Dec 2004 Location: ex-Gyeonggi

If you are really worried then do a search on the internet for Japanese Customs inspection or whatever.

I lived in Japan before and never had a problem taking prescription medication into the country. Just make sure you have it all in the same place in your luggage, in an easily accessible pocket should they decide to quiz you about it.

I have heard that bringing in medications containing things like codeine and pseudoephedrine is restricted/prohibited in certain countries, but I think if it is prescribed and you have a signed letter and prescription copy, you should be okay.

kangnam mafioso · Joined: 27 Jan 2003 Location: Teheranno

you should use caution any time you travel with narcotics outside of your own country (codeine, morphine, hydrocodeine, vicadin, lortab, darvacet, percocet, oxycontin/codone, et al -- benzos are also controversial: valium, xanax, ativan, klonopin). as long as they are in the proper prescription bottle with the doctor/pharmacy name on them, it shouldn't be a problem. and yes, i would also carry the print-out they give you at the pharmacy when you fill the prescription as an extra precaution. also, don't carry a huge supply for a short trip (several months worth etc.). otherwise, you will be fine and will probably never be searched anyway.