Permit RequiredNarcotic · Diphenoxylate

Is Diphenoxylate Legal in Japan?

Reviewed by Dr. Lo and Dr. Lee (PharmD)·Last updated

NCD permit required

Lomotil (diphenoxylate/atropine) is a narcotic in Japan and requires an NCD import permit. Loperamide (Imodium) is the recommended OTC alternative — it is not controlled and is widely available in Japanese pharmacies.

Japan status

Permit Required

Quantity threshold

Not applicable

Substance class

Narcotic

Why is Diphenoxylate controlled in Japan?

Diphenoxylate is structurally related to meperidine and is controlled as a narcotic in Japan despite the atropine adulterant in Lomotil.

How to apply for the NCD import permit

  1. 1Apply for the NCD import permit at least 14 days before your arrival date.
  2. 2Doctor's letter (dated within 3 months) must list: your full name, diagnosis, medical necessity, drug name, strength, daily dose, and the prescribing doctor's signature.
  3. 3Attach photos of original packaging showing drug name and strength.
  4. 4You must carry the import certificate with you and present it at customs — not in checked baggage.

Application form: Submit through the Japan Narcotics Control Department (NCD).

NCD import permit application

Legal alternatives in Japan

Discuss these with your prescriber before travel. Switching medications mid-trip is not advisable.

Loperamide (Imodium)

Not controlled. Available OTC in Japan as 'Stoppa' or 'Down Pita'.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lomotil allowed in Japan?▼

Lomotil requires an NCD import permit. Most travelers switch to loperamide (Imodium), which is freely available in Japan.

Related medications

CodeinePermit Required

Codeine is a Schedule I narcotic. Japan's law explicitly excludes products containing ≤1% codeine — but this threshold is concentration-based, not dose-based, so check the product carefully.

Check your full travel kit

Diphenoxylate is just one medication — most travelers carry several. Our free checker reviews your entire prescription list against Japan’s import rules.

Check all my medications

Source: MHLW Narcotics Control Department — Controlled Substances List (12 Dec 2024). Page last reviewed 2026-05-31 by Dr. Lo and Dr. Lee (PharmD). Regulations change — verify with the MHLW Narcotics Control Department before travel. This page is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your prescribing physician or from a Japanese customs authority.