Japan to Tighten Drug Sales Regulations to Prevent Overdoses

Tokyo, April 27 (Jiji Press)–The Japanese government will tighten regulations on the sale of certain over-the-counter drugs in May as part of efforts to prevent overdoses that have been spreading in the country mainly among young women. The revised pharmaceutical and medical device law will regulate sales of certain OTC drugs, including cold medicines, antipyretics and allergy medicines, to people under 18, allowing them to purchase one small box for a duration of 5 to 7 days. Pharmacists will verify the ages, names and purchasing history of buyers using identification cards and provide them with information on overdose risks. The tighter regulations come as overdoses have become a social issue. An overdose refers to taking a large amount of a drug not for its intended use but to alter sensations and feelings. The number of patients with acute poisoning and dependence with OTC drugs has increased sharply since the COVID-19 pandemic. The health ministry warns that overdoses can lead to loss of consciousness, cardiopulmonary arrest, or acute poisoning resulting in death. A survey by the ministry in 2024 of 294 overdose cases across the country found that patients’ average age was 29.1 years and that women accounted for more than 70 pct of the total. A separate survey of about 50,000 high school students by the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry in fiscal 2024 showed that 1.4 pct of respondents said they had abused OTC drugs in the past year. The ministry and industry organizations came up with guidelines to ensure that the tighter regulations are enforced effectively. The guidelines call on information of customers who buy drugs frequently and those with suspected overdoses to be shared within the store, among other measures. If pharmacies and drugstores do not comply with the regulations, their operating licenses may not be renewed. Overdoses are “not illegal, but this doesn’t mean they’re safe or reassuring. They will hurt your mind and body,” a ministry official said. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]