ConditionalPsychotropic · Phenobarbital

Is Phenobarbital Legal in Japan?

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

Conditional — quantity threshold applies

Phenobarbital is allowed into Japan for personal use without a permit, provided you carry no more than 6 g in oral (non-injectable) form. Above that threshold, or for any injectable form, you must apply for a Yakkan Shoumei import certificate supported by a doctor's letter before travel.

Japan status

Conditional

Quantity threshold

6 g

Substance class

Psychotropic

Why is Phenobarbital controlled in Japan?

Phenobarbital is a Schedule III psychotropic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law.

Doctor letter & quantity rules

  1. 1No certificate or permission is required if you carry ≤ the quantity threshold AND the form is non-injectable (oral only).
  2. 2If you are above the threshold OR carrying an injectable form, apply for a Yakkan Shoumei (import certificate) before travel.
  3. 3Carry the prescription bottle in original pharmacy packaging with the patient label legible.
  4. 4We recommend a doctor's letter listing your diagnosis, drug name, daily dose, and trip length — even when below the threshold, customs may ask.

Above the threshold? Apply for a Yakkan Shoumei (import certificate) — the MHLW equivalent of an import permit for psychotropics over the personal-use limit.

MHLW Yakkan Shoumei guidance

Frequently asked questions

Is phenobarbital allowed in Japan for epilepsy?▼

Yes, up to 6 g for personal use in oral form. Most maintenance regimens fit comfortably within this threshold.

Related medications

ClonazepamConditional

Clonazepam is a Schedule III psychotropic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law.

DiazepamConditional

Diazepam is a Schedule III psychotropic under Japan's Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Law.

Check your full travel kit

Phenobarbital 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.