What to Avoid: Unsafe OTC Medicines for Children in Japan
? Parent: I was shopping at a Japanese pharmacy and saw many cold medicines, but I wasn’t sure which ones were safe for my child. Are there some I should avoid?
? Pharmacist: Yes, that’s a very important question. Some over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in Japan are not safe for small children, especially if they’re intended for adults or if they contain strong ingredients.
❌ Common OTC Medicines to Avoid for Kids
| Medicine Type | What to Avoid | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cold medicine | Adult versions (ex. パブロンゴールドA) | Dosage too strong, often includes multiple ingredients |
| Cough syrup | Codeine (コデイン) | Not safe for children under 12; risk of breathing problems |
| Allergy meds | Strong antihistamines like Diphenhydramine | May cause drowsiness, irritability, or paradoxical excitement |
| Pain relievers | Aspirin (アスピリン) | Risk of Reye’s syndrome in children with viral illness |
| Eye drops / nasal sprays | Decongestants (ナファゾリン, テトラヒドロゾリン) | May raise blood pressure or cause rebound effect |
⚠️ Watch for These Red Flags on the Package
- ?「大人用」= For adults only
- ?「12歳以上」= For age 12 and up
- ? Multiple effects listed: 咳、熱、鼻水 (cough, fever, runny nose) – may be a combo drug
- ⚠️ 警告 (keikoku) = Warning
? Parent: I almost bought a cold tablet with three ingredients I couldn’t read. Good thing I asked!
? Pharmacist: Yes, many cold medicines in Japan combine 4–5 ingredients, including caffeine, painkillers, and antihistamines. It’s too much for a small child’s system.
✅ Safer Alternatives for Children
- Fever: Acetaminophen (アセトアミノフェン) – Brands: Tylenol Kids, Jikinin Suppository
- Runny nose: Chlorpheniramine (クロルフェニラミン) – often in kids’ syrups
- Cough: Dextromethorphan (デキストロメトルファン) – safer when dosed properly
- Itching: Muhi Baby or Muhi Kids (topical)
Look for packages that say:
- こども用 (for children)
- 1〜6歳, 3〜12歳 (age range)
? A Helpful Pharmacy Conversation
? Parent: My child is 4 years old. Can I give him this cold tablet?
? Pharmacist: That one is too strong for a 4-year-old. Let me show you a syrup that’s specifically made for kids between 1 and 6 years old.
? When to See a Doctor
Don’t rely on OTC medicine alone if your child:
- Has a fever over 38.5°C (101.3°F) for more than 2 days
- Shows difficulty breathing or severe coughing
- Develops a rash, swelling, or allergic reaction
- Is younger than 1 year and showing symptoms
? Final Tips
- ✅ Always check the label and age indication
- ✅ Ask a pharmacist before buying – even if you’re unsure
- ✅ Avoid combining multiple cold meds
- ✅ Keep medicine out of children’s reach
? Parent: I’ll be more careful next time. Thanks for the clear advice!
? Pharmacist: You’re very welcome! We’re always happy to help explain what’s safe for kids in Japan.
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