Oral rehydration solution (OS-1, Pedialyte)
Oral rehydration solution (OS-1)
Japan's summers are dangerously hot and OS-1, the standard oral rehydration solution, is everywhere in convenience stores and pharmacies. It is formulated for dehydration from illness or heat, with more salt than sports drinks such as Pocari Sweat. Pharmacists will point to it for traveler's diarrhea and heat exhaustion.
- Prescription status
- OTC only
- Over the counter
- Not sold OTC
- Bringing it into Japan
- ✓ 1 month Rx / 2 months OTC
- Names abroad
- Pedialyte · Dioralyte
Over the counter
Classified as a "food for special dietary use," not a drug, and sold at drugstores, pharmacies, and many convenience stores.
Prescription products in Japan
0 productsProducts on Japan's national drug price list. Prescription only: a clinic visit is needed, and pharmacies may substitute a generic with the same ingredient.
| Dosage forms |
|---|
Product names are shown in Japanese, exactly as printed on the package and the prescription. Show this page at the pharmacy.
All listed products (0) · Drug price list as of 2026-08-12
Bringing it into Japan
Up to a 1-month supply of prescription medicine, or 2 months of OTC medicine, without any paperwork. For more, apply for a Yakkan Shoumei (import confirmation) before travel.
Names abroad
| US | Pedialyte, Liquid I.V. |
|---|---|
| UK | Dioralyte |
| Korea | 링거워터, OS-1 |
| China | 口服补液盐, 宝矿力 |
| Taiwan | 舒跑, 口服電解質液 |
Sources
- Health Insurance Claims Review & Reimbursement Services — Drug master (NHI drug price list) shinryohoshu.mhlw.go.jp — 2026-08-12
- Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare — Bringing medicines for personal use into Japan mhlw.go.jp
This page describes how a medicine is regulated and sold in Japan. It is not medical advice and does not cover dosing for your situation; follow your doctor's and pharmacist's instructions.