Is Norephedrine / Phenylpropanolamine Legal in Japan?
NCD permit required
Norephedrine (phenylpropanolamine) is a Stimulant Raw Material in Japan. Products containing ≤50% are excluded; above that requires an NCD permit. Mostly relevant for legacy weight-loss and decongestant products.
Japan status
Permit Required
Quantity threshold
Not applicable
Substance class
Stimulant Raw Material
Why is Norephedrine / Phenylpropanolamine controlled in Japan?
Norephedrine is a metabolite and precursor to amphetamine-class stimulants.
How to apply for the NCD import permit
- 1Apply for the NCD import permit at least 14 days before your arrival date.
- 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.
- 3Attach photos of original packaging showing drug name and strength.
- 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 applicationFrequently asked questions
Is Dexatrim allowed in Japan?▼
Dexatrim is no longer sold with phenylpropanolamine in the US, but if you have a legacy product or international version with ≥50% norephedrine, you need an NCD permit.
Related medications
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.
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.
Check your full travel kit
Norephedrine / Phenylpropanolamine is just one medication — most travelers carry several. Our free checker reviews your entire prescription list against Japan’s import rules.
Check all my medicationsSource: 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.