Got a headache while living or traveling in Japan? Whether it’s due to stress, lack of sleep, tension, or long screen time, there are several effective and affordable over-the-counter (OTC) headache medicines you can find in Japanese drugstores.
This guide is for non-migraine headaches — for migraines or severe recurring headaches, we strongly recommend seeing a doctor in Japan.
Symptoms Covered in This Guide:
- Tension headaches
- Stress-related or fatigue-induced headaches
- Menstrual-related headache (mild to moderate)
- General headache from lack of sleep, dehydration, or work fatigue
Top 3 OTC Medicines for Headaches in Japan
1st Place: Loxonin S (ロキソニンS)
Best for: Strong headaches, toothaches, back pain, joint pain
Main ingredient: Loxoprofen (a type of NSAID)
✅ Highlights:
- Powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects
- Works well for headaches, backaches, toothaches, and more
- Considered a “pro-drug,” activated after digestion → gentler on the stomach than some other NSAIDs
- Offers fast and reliable relief
⚠️ Cautions:
- Must be purchased during pharmacy hours with a pharmacist present (classified as Type 1 OTC medicine)
- Can still irritate the stomach or affect kidneys — always take after meals
- Avoid long-term or excessive use
Loxonin S is one of the strongest and most trusted OTC painkillers in Japan. If you want quick, effective headache relief and have no major stomach issues, this is your best bet.
2nd Place: Calonal (カロナール)
Best for: Mild to moderate headaches, fever, or for people with sensitive stomachs
Main ingredient: Acetaminophen (same as Tylenol)
Highlights:
- Gentle on the stomach — suitable for children, elderly, and pregnant women
- Good for headaches, fever, and minor body aches
- Preferred by doctors for its safety and versatility
⚠️ Cautions:
- Best for mild to moderate pain — may not be strong enough for severe headaches
- Be careful not to take with other products containing acetaminophen
- Overuse can damage the liver — follow dosage instructions carefully
Calonal is a safe and mild painkiller that’s often prescribed in hospitals. If you want something you can trust and tolerate well, especially if you have a sensitive stomach, this is a great choice.
3rd Place: Eve A (イブA錠)
Best for: Tension headaches, menstrual pain, muscle pain
Main ingredient: Ibuprofen (NSAID)
Highlights:
- Effective for inflammatory pain, especially menstrual cramps and general headaches
- Works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, the chemical that causes pain and inflammation
- Common choice for women due to its menstrual pain relief effects
⚠️ Cautions:
- Can irritate the stomach — take after meals
- Some people may find it too strong or, on the other hand, not strong enough depending on body chemistry
- Do not combine with other NSAIDs (like Loxonin)
Eve A is a well-balanced painkiller that’s popular among women and younger adults. While it may not act as quickly as Loxonin, it’s a reliable go-to for moderate headaches and period-related pain.
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