There is a public system to provide relief for health problems caused by medicines imported by individuals, but the scope of coverage is subject to specific conditions. The officially recognized “Adverse Reactions Relief Program” in Japan covers adverse reactions to medicines approved through authorized channels. This system is explained below:
What is the Adverse Drug Reactions Relief System?
This system is a public system that allows victims or their families to receive financial compensation for health problems caused by side effects of pharmaceutical products. This system is limited to medicines that are officially approved and marketed in Japan.
Cases not covered by the relief system
- Medicines imported by individuals: Medicines purchased directly from overseas by individuals through the Internet or other means are not covered by this relief program because they have not been approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. This is because products imported by individuals do not necessarily meet Japanese safety and quality standards, and their safety and efficacy cannot be guaranteed.
Conditions for eligibility for the relief program
- Legitimate drugs: Must be side effects from a doctor’s prescription or from an over-the-counter drug approved in Japan.
- Physician Diagnosis: A diagnosis of side effects must be made and reported by a physician.
Risks of Imported Drugs
Imported medicines carry the following risks
- Risk of counterfeit or poor quality products: may cause health problems.
- Lack of legal protection: No legal or regulatory protection in Japan.
Recommendations for countermeasures
- Use of legitimate medicines: Whenever possible, it is recommended to obtain medicines through a doctor’s prescription or from a reputable domestic source.
- Verify information: It is important to check if the drug you are using is approved in Japan and consult a specialist if you have any questions.
Thus, health problems caused by privately imported medicines are not covered by the public relief system and require careful handling.
Be careful if you are making purchases by dropshipping. Many companies are located overseas and their quality may be difficult to verify.
