On my recent trip to Japan, I picked up a couple things from various shops and drugstores. I thought it’d be interesting to share and go over these products based off of what I could read using Google Translate.
Saratect Insect Repellent
One of the first things I picked up in Kyoto was this insect repellent. The active ingredient is DEET 10%. I didn’t use it too often, but the areas that I sprayed did not have any bites. I like how it had a mild fresh “marine” scent.
Omuniido Ketoprofen Patches
I applied these patches on my swollen ankles throughout the trip, especially on the days when we did a lot of walking. The packaging says it contains ketoprofen and menthol. Ketoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain and inflammation. I did like the cooling effect of the menthol that lasted a couple of hours. Upon removal, I noticed it did not leave any sticky residue, which I liked.
Loxonin EX Tape
These Loxonin patches were recommended by a store employee at Don Quixote. The patch contains loxoprofen, a different NSAID (not available in the U.S.) for pain and inflammation in musculoskeletal conditions. I haven’t had the chance to try this yet.
Traful PRO Quick
I started having a canker sore during my trip and I didn’t know there was a specific product for stomatitis (specifically mouth ulcers) until my friend recommended it. It’s an ointment formulation that contains triamcinolone acetonide 0.1%. The U.S. has a triamcinolone dental paste formulation called Oralone, but it requires a prescription. I used this ointment for a few consecutive nights, and to my surprise, my canker sore did heal pretty quickly.
EVE A Tablets
Eve A is indicated for pain and fever. Looking at the back of the package, it states the major ingredients as: ibuprofen 150mg, allylisopropylacetylurea 60mg, and anhydrous caffeine 80mg. I have heard it is commonly used for menstrual pain, which explains the combination with caffeine. Allylisopropylacetylurea (AKA apranalide or apronal) appears to be a mild sedative that has been withdrawn in many other countries.
Kenei’s Throat Fresh
This is a spray indicated for a sore throat. The main ingredient is povidone iodine 4.5mg/mL, which is commonly used as an antiseptic. It also contains additives such as menthol, eucalyptus oil, glycerin, ethanol, and flavoring. The U.S. does not carry povidone iodine in the form of a throat spray, but in the form of a rinse. When I used it, I did not think the taste was terrible. The menthol also provided a cooling sensation.
