Japan Drugstore Guide: Vitamins and Supplements 

Japan Drugstore Guide: Vitamins and Supplements 

Your guide to Japan’s best immunity-boosting supplements

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Give your body a boost with vitamins and supplements focused on energy, hydration, and immunity support. Drugstores across Japan are always stocked with products that will help you stay energized, hydrated, and healthy.

Look out for common keywords on labels to guide your choices: エネルギー補給 (enerugi hokyu, energy), 水分補給 (suibun hokyu, hydration), and 免疫サポート (men’eki sapoto, immunity support). From quick energy jelly drinks to vitamin-packed beverages and functional foods, these products are an easy and convenient way to support your health.

You can also check out our guide to traditional gentle herbal remedies in Japan.

Morinaga ENERGY In 10-Second Charge (森永 ENERGY In 10秒チャージ) 

Best for: Quick Energy Boost

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: 

For quick energy on the go, this compact jelly drink delivers a shot of carbohydrates, vitamins, and electrolytes. Its smooth texture and fruity flavor make it perfect for busy mornings, workouts, or mid-afternoon slumps. Pharmacists recommend it for anyone who needs a fast, convenient boost without feeling heavy or sluggish. It’s a popular choice for students, office workers, and anyone with an active lifestyle.

Active Ingredients: Carbohydrates (approx.45g), Vitamin C (approx. 100mg), Electrolytes (approx. 200mg of sodium) per 180g serving

Dosage and How to Take: Consume one pouch per day. Take it when you feel the need for a quick energy boost, such as during mid-afternoon slumps, before or after physical activity, or when experiencing fatigue.

Price: ~¥203 for one jelly drink (varies by pharmacy).

Otsuka Pharmaceutical OS-1 Drink (大塚製薬 OS-1ドリンク)

Best for: Mild to Moderate Dehydration

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: Formulated to help replenish fluids and electrolytes, this drink is an oral rehydration solution often recommended for mild dehydration caused by fever or fatigue. Containing electrolytes and glucose, it works to support hydration and restore the body’s water and mineral balance more effectively than plain water. Pharmacists in Japan say its mild, slightly salty taste is refreshing. There’s also a jelly version (OS-1ゼリー).

Active Ingredients: Electrolytes + glucose- specifically: Sodium (approx. 575 mg), Potassium (approx. 390 mg), Chloride (approx. 1,775 mg), and Glucose (1.8%) per 500ml serving.

Dosage and How to Take: For better absorption, take small, frequent sips rather than consuming it all at once. For adults, the standard guideline is around 500–1,000 ml per day. Avoid excessive intake. For children or the elderly, consult a doctor or pharmacist before use. 

Price: ~¥216 for 500ml drink, ~¥216 for 200g jelly (varies by pharmacy).

Suntory Kireto Lemon (サントリー キレートレモン)

Suntory Kireto Lemon1

Best for: Supports Immunity & Combats Fatigue

Summary and What Pharmacists Say: This classic Japanese vitamin drink has gone viral across social media as a go-to for a quick immune boost. Kireto Lemon delivers a refreshing burst of citrus flavor with added electrolytes and a generous dose of vitamin C to help combat fatigue, support immunity, and maintain overall wellness. 

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C (approx. 1,350 mg), Carbohydrates (approx. 26.6 g) per 155 ml bottle. Additionally contains citric acid for flavor and natural sugars from lemon juice.

Dosage and How to Take: Drink one 155 ml bottle per day, preferably during or after meals, or whenever you feel you need a quick energy and vitamin boost. It is suitable for adults and children who are old enough to handle a small bottled drink.

Price: ~¥138 for 155ml drink (varies by pharmacy).

DHC Vitamin C Capsules (DHC ビタミンC ハードカプセル)

Best for: Supports Immunity & Antioxidant Support 

Summary and What Pharmacists Say:  A long-time bestseller in Japan, DHC Vitamin C Hard Capsules are a simple, effective way to boost your daily vitamin intake and support your immune system during the colder months. Each capsule contains a high dose of vitamin C, along with vitamin B2 to enhance absorption and antioxidant benefits. Ideal for maintaining skin health, reducing fatigue, and strengthening immunity, these easy-to-swallow capsules are perfect for busy lifestyles. Pharmacists recommend them as a reliable, no-fuss supplement to keep your body resilient and your skin glowing throughout winter.

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C (approx. 1,000 mg), Vitamin B2 (approx. 2 mg) per 2 capsule serving.

Dosage and How to Take: Take two capsules per day with water or lukewarm water. For best absorption, it’s recommended to divide the intake into one capsule in the morning and one in the evening, since vitamin C is water-soluble and not stored in the body. Can be taken with or without food. Avoid exceeding the suggested dosage. For children or individuals with specific health conditions, it’s best to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

Price: ~¥529 for 120 tablets (varies by pharmacy).

FANCL Immune Support Chewable Type (免疫サポート チュアブルタイプ)

Best for: Maintenance of healthy immune function

Summary and What Pharmacists Say:  This lemon yogurt–flavored chewable from FANCL delivers 100 billion Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma—an advanced ingredient that helps activate immune cells directly, unlike typical lactic acid bacteria. Blended with daily doses of vitamins C and D, it supports your body’s natural defenses while also keeping your mouth fresh and hydrated. Pharmacists recommend it for those who want a gentle, everyday immunity boost without relying on medicine. 

Active Ingredient: L.lactis strain Plasma (100 billion bacteria per two tablets)

Dosage and How to Take: Take 2 tablets per day at any time. Chew the tablets (do not swallow whole). 

Price: ~¥2,520 for 60 tablets (varies by pharmacy).


This information is based on interviews with Japanese drugstore employees and available product data as of October 2025. Always read the product packaging and instructions carefully, and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions about your treatment. 

For more information, read our full guide to drugstores in Japan.

This page has been brought to you as a public service of The Bluff Medical and Dental Clinic in Yokohama.