REGULATORY
OTC-Like Drugs Left in Limbo as Panel Debates Cost-Sharing without Clear Policy Signal
Japan’s health ministry stopped short of presenting a clear policy direction on “OTC-like” prescription drugs at a Social Security Council meeting on December 18, instead flagging the issue as “pending” in a discussion summary, with committee members still at odds…
To read the full story
Related Article
- MHLW Names 77 Active Ingredients for OTC-Like Drug Charges
December 26, 2025
- Panel Backs Extra Charges for OTC-Like Drugs While Keeping Coverage, but Design Details Still Divisive
November 28, 2025
- Patient Groups Push Back against Delisting OTC-Like Drugs; Panel Leans Toward Higher Copays
November 21, 2025
- MHLW Weighs Higher Copay Ratios for LLPs; 1/2 to Full Gap on the Table
November 7, 2025
- MHLW Outlines 4 Key Themes for 2026 Reform, Eyes OTC-Like Meds, CEA for Efficiency
October 24, 2025
- MHLW Panel Launches Full Debate on Drug Coverage Reform; LLPs, Biologics, OTC-Like Meds in Focus
October 17, 2025
- Panel Split on Delisting OTC-Like Drugs from Insurance Coverage
October 3, 2025
- Panel Flags Concern over Drug-Only Focus in Proposed Cost-Cuts for 2026 Reform
September 29, 2025
REGULATORY
- Finance Minister Backs Further Debate on Low-Risk Medicines: CEFP Minutes
May 29, 2026
- LDP HQ Finalizes Recommendations ahead of Growth Strategy
May 29, 2026
- Japan Eyes Broader Healthcare Measures Addressing Sex-Based Health Issues
May 28, 2026
- MHLW Panel Deems 4 More “Drug Loss” Products as High-Need
May 27, 2026
- LDP Panel OKs Immunization Act Bill Aimed at Beyfortus NIP Use
May 27, 2026
In the complex landscape of the Japanese pharmaceutical market, the “status quo” is often the safest harbor. But for leaders like Kennet Brysting, former president of Gilead Japan, the status quo is the most dangerous place to stay.Innovation in Japan…





