Can I Bring Tums to Japan?

 Navigating Medication and Health Regulations

Global travel can be an enriching experience, bringing you into contact with different cultures, cuisines, and traditions. But for some people, the excitement of exploration might be tempered by dietary changes that can upset their digestive balance. That’s when remedies like Tums, an over-the-counter (OTC) medication known for its quick relief of heartburn and acid indigestion, come to the rescue.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Japan and rely on Tums for occasional digestive discomfort, you might be wondering, “Can I bring Tums to Japan?”

In this blog post, we’ll examine this question in detail, covering what Tums are, their legal status in Japan, and some helpful tips for traveling to Japan with medication.

Understanding Tums

Tums is an over-the-counter brand of antacid that helps to neutralize stomach acid. The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, which works by directly countering the effects of stomach acid. Tums is commonly used to provide quick relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach, or to supplement dietary calcium.

The Status of Tums in Japan

In Japan, medication and health supplements are governed by the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act (PMD Act). This act classifies substances into several categories, ranging from prescription medication to over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements.

As of  June 2023, Tums, or calcium carbonate antacids, are considered over-the-counter medication in Japan. This means they can be purchased without a prescription. You can find calcium carbonate antacids in many pharmacies throughout Japan under different brand names.

Can You Bring Tums to Japan?

Yes, you can bring Tums to Japan. As per Japanese regulations, you are allowed to bring up to one month’s supply of an over-the-counter medication such as Tums for personal use without needing any special permission or documentation.

However, if you’re planning to stay in Japan for more than one month and wish to bring a larger supply of Tums, you may need to apply for a Yakkan Shoumei, a certificate that allows the import of larger quantities of medication for personal use.

Tips for Bringing Tums to Japan

1. Documentation: Always carry your medications, including Tums, in their original packaging. This makes it easy to identify them if you’re questioned by customs officials.
2. Check for updates: While Tums is considered an over-the-counter medication as of  June 2023, regulations can change. Always check the latest rules and regulations regarding medication import from the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country, or the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare in Japan before you travel.
3. Alternatives in Japan: As mentioned earlier, similar antacid products to Tums are readily available in Japan. So, even if you run out of your supply or forget to bring it, you can easily find a substitute at a local drugstore.

Conclusion

Traveling to a new country should be an exciting and stress-free experience. Understanding the rules and regulations about bringing medications like Tums to Japan can help ensure your journey goes smoothly. The key takeaway is that you can bring Tums to Japan, but if you plan to bring more than a one month’s supply, a Yakkan Shoumei may be necessary.

Keep in mind that while it’s crucial to be prepared, there are always options available if you run out of your supply. Japanese drugstores are well-stocked with a variety of healthcare products, including antacids similar to Tums.

Remember, rules can change, so always verify the latest