How to Choose Cold Medicine for Kids in Japan
?? Parent: Excuse me, my child has a runny nose and a little cough. Can I buy something over the counter?
? Pharmacist: Of course. May I ask how old your child is?
?? Parent: She’s 4 years old.
? Pharmacist: Thank you. In Japan, most cold medicines are labeled for specific age groups. For a 4-year-old, we must choose a medicine that clearly says it’s for ages 3–5 or 1–6. Never use adult medicine or split tablets, as the dosage could be dangerous.
✔️ Main Symptoms? Let’s Match the Right Ingredients
? Pharmacist: What are her main symptoms? Is it mostly a runny nose, cough, or fever?
?? Parent: Mostly runny nose and a mild cough. No fever.
? Pharmacist: Okay, then we can look for a medicine that contains:
- Chlorpheniramine（クロルフェニラミン）– for runny nose
- Dextromethorphan（デキストロメトルファン）– for dry cough
- Guaifenesin（グアイフェネシン）– for productive cough
These are commonly used in Japan in children’s cold syrups.
? What to Avoid?
? Pharmacist: Avoid medicines that say “大人用 (for adults)” or that don’t list a children’s dosage. Also, don’t mix cold medicine with other fever or cough medicines unless instructed. Overlapping ingredients can lead to overdose.
? Popular Kids’ Cold Medicines in Japan
- Pabron Kids Syrup（パブロンキッズかぜシロップ）
- Muhi Baby Cough Syrup（ムヒのこどもせきどめシロップ）
- Ryukakusan Direct Junior（龍角散ダイレクトジュニア） – for sore throat
Always check the label for age recommendations and avoid anything labeled with ⚠️注意（ちゅうい）without understanding it. Ask a pharmacist when in doubt!
?️ How Often and How Much?
? Pharmacist: Doses are usually every 4–6 hours, but please follow the instructions exactly. Never exceed the dose. Use the measuring cup or spoon provided.
?? Parent: Should I keep giving the medicine even if she’s getting better?
? Pharmacist: Once the symptoms improve, you can stop. If symptoms last more than 3 days, especially with fever, please see a doctor.
?️ What If My Child Has a Fever?
? Pharmacist: For fever, we often use:
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)（アセトアミノフェン）– safe for kids
It’s sold under names like “Jikinin Kids Suppository” or “Tylenol Kids”.
? Final Tips
- ✅ Always check the dosage by age and weight.
- ✅ Avoid using leftover or shared medicine.
- ✅ Consult a pharmacist when unsure.
- ✅ Japanese labels may be confusing – don’t hesitate to ask for help!
?? Parent: Thank you so much! I feel more confident now.
? Pharmacist: You’re very welcome! I hope she feels better soon. And remember, we’re always here if you have questions. ?
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