Permit RequiredStimulant Raw Material · Ephedrine

Is Ephedrine Legal in Japan?

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

NCD permit required

Ephedrine is a Stimulant Raw Material in Japan. Products containing ≤10% ephedrine are excluded; above that threshold requires an NCD import permit. This includes some Vicks Inhalers, Bronkaid, and asthma products sold over-the-counter in the US.

Japan status

Permit Required

Quantity threshold

Not applicable

Substance class

Stimulant Raw Material

Why is Ephedrine controlled in Japan?

Ephedrine is a precursor to methamphetamine and is tightly controlled under Japan's Stimulants Control Act. Some low-concentration topical products are allowed; oral and inhaled products usually exceed the threshold.

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.

Albuterol / Salbutamol (Ventolin)

Asthma rescue inhaler — not controlled in Japan. Allowed with prescription.

Frequently asked questions

Are Vicks Inhalers allowed in Japan?▼

Vicks Inhalers containing levomethamphetamine (a chemical relative of methamphetamine) are prohibited regardless of concentration. The ephedrine-based formulations may exceed 10% and require an NCD permit. Buy a Japanese nasal product like Pabron Mini AG instead.

Related medications

PseudoephedrinePermit Required

Pseudoephedrine is a Stimulant Raw Material under Japan's Stimulants Control Act because it can be used to manufacture methamphetamine. The 10% rule means most US single-ingredient pseudoephedrine tablets (30 mg, 60 mg, 120 mg) trigger the restriction.

Check your full travel kit

Ephedrine 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.