Painkillers in Asia: What to Buy if You Forget Your Pills

When traveling through Asia, it's easy to forget packing your usual headache pills. Unfortunately, headaches caused by heat, jet lag, or local food can quickly spoil your adventure. The good news: common painkillers are available at local pharmacies across Asia. While brand names may differ, the active ingredients remain familiar.

This guide will help you confidently find and buy headache medication during your Asian travels. We’ll cover the following topics:

• General Tips for Buying Medication Abroad

• Country-Specific Recommendations (Thailand, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Japan)

• Comparison of International Brands and Local Equivalents

• Tips for Specific Headache Situations

Let's start with general recommendations to prepare you for navigating pharmacies abroad. 

General Tips for Buying Medication Abroad

Here are some simple but important tips that will help you safely buy painkillers in Asian pharmacies.

Know the Active Ingredient

Painkillers around the world typically contain familiar active ingredients:

• Paracetamol (acetaminophen) – effective for headaches, fever, and mild pains.

• Ibuprofen – good for headaches with inflammation, migraines, or menstrual pain.

• Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) – less commonly used nowadays for headaches, but still available.

Before your trip, write down or memorize these generic names. Pharmacists worldwide recognize them, even if local brand names differ.

Choose Reliable Pharmacies

Always purchase medication from licensed pharmacies, often identified by a cross sign or labeled clearly as "Pharmacy". In major Asian cities, trustworthy pharmacy chains include:

• Thailand: Boots, Watsons

• Vietnam: Pharmacity

• Indonesia: Kimia Farma, Guardian, Century

• Japan: Drugstores with a red cross and the symbol「薬」(kusuri)
  
  

Avoid buying medication from street vendors or market stalls to reduce the risk of purchasing counterfeit or unsafe pills.

Overcoming the Language Barrier

In tourist areas, pharmacists usually speak basic English. If they don't, simply show the name of the active ingredient or medication on your phone or a piece of paper.

For example:

• English: "Paracetamol 500 mg, please."

• Japanese: "頭痛薬 (Zutsuu-yaku)" meaning "headache medicine."

• Thai: "ยาพาราเซตามอล (yaa paraa-setaamol)" means "Paracetamol."

Having these phrases ready can make your pharmacy visit much smoother.

Consulting the Pharmacist

Clearly describe your symptoms, like “headache,” “fever,” or “nausea.” Asian pharmacists typically provide helpful recommendations for common ailments. However, if your headache is severe, accompanied by very high fever, confusion, or vomiting, seek medical care immediately.

Avoiding Counterfeit Medications

Fake medications can be a problem, particularly in developing regions. Here are some quick ways to avoid counterfeits:

• Buy only sealed, clearly printed packages.

• Check for a valid expiration date.

• Look for quality assurance labels such as GMP certification.

• If available, use mobile apps to scan barcodes and verify authenticity (common in Thailand).

If you doubt the medication’s authenticity, don’t hesitate to ask for an alternative or go to another pharmacy.

Local vs. Familiar Brands

Local Asian brands of medication are often just as reliable as Western ones and usually cheaper. For example, Panadol (paracetamol) is widely recognized in Asia, but local equivalents can be even more affordable and less likely to be counterfeited.

Forms of Medication

In Asia, you may encounter various forms of headache medication, including tablets, powders, and dissolvable (effervescent) tablets. Effervescent tablets, such as Efferalgan, are popular in places like Vietnam and quickly relieve pain, especially useful if swallowing pills is uncomfortable.

With these tips in mind, you're now well-prepared for safely buying painkillers across Asia.

Find the equivalent of your medicine in any country on pillintrip.com – convenient, fast and in any language.

Thailand: Buying Painkillers Without Prescription

Thailand is tourist-friendly, including its pharmacies. If you get a headache during your vacation, here's how to find relief quickly and safely.

Popular Painkillers in Thailand

The most common over-the-counter painkillers available are:

• Paracetamol
  
  

• Brands: Panadol, Tylenol

• Usage: General headaches, fever, mild pain.

• Dosage: Usually 500 mg tablets. Take 1–2 tablets every 4–6 hours; avoid exceeding 8 tablets (4g) in 24 hours.
  
  

• Ibuprofen
  
  

• Brands: Nurofen, Advil, Gofen

• Usage: Headaches with inflammation, migraines, menstrual pain.

• Dosage: Typically 200–400 mg tablets. Take 1–2 tablets up to three times daily. Always take ibuprofen with food to prevent stomach irritation.
  
  

• Combined Cold Remedies (paracetamol + antihistamines/decongestants)
  
  

• Brands: Tiffy, Veracold

• Usage: Headaches associated with colds, sinus pressure. Be cautious: these can cause drowsiness.
  
  

• Mefenamic Acid (Ponstan 500 mg)
  
  

• Usage: Stronger pain relief for intense headaches or menstrual pain.

• Note: Can irritate the stomach; best used with pharmacist advice.
  
  

Where to Buy

Reliable pharmacies are everywhere in Thai tourist areas, including:

• Boots

• Watsons

• Large supermarkets and convenience stores like 7-Eleven (often have small packs of Panadol near cash registers)

These pharmacies usually have English-speaking staff, making communication easy. Avoid buying medications from beach or street vendors.

Price Examples

Painkillers are affordable in Thailand:

• Panadol (paracetamol): 30–50 Thai Baht (about $1–$2 USD) per pack.

• Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Advil): Slightly more expensive but still affordable (50–80 Baht).

Practical Tips & Advice from Travelers

• Thai medication packaging typically includes English text, especially Panadol and Tylenol, making them easy to identify.

• A helpful local phrase is "ยาพาราเซตามอล" (yaa paraa-setaamol)—pronounced similarly to English "Paracetamol." Pharmacists instantly understand.

• For quick relief of headaches in the heat, combine painkillers with electrolyte solutions available at pharmacies.

Risks & Precautions

Counterfeit medications in Thailand are uncommon, especially in established pharmacies, but caution is still advised:

• Check packaging carefully for seals, holograms, and expiration dates.

• Avoid purchasing stronger medications (like those containing codeine or opioids) without a prescription. Thai law strictly regulates such drugs.

• If in doubt about medication authenticity or safety, visit another pharmacy or ask your hotel concierge for recommended pharmacies.

Thailand offers easy access to effective, safe, and affordable headache relief, letting you enjoy your vacation without unnecessary disruptions.

Vietnam: Finding Effective Painkillers at Local Pharmacies

Vietnam’s pharmacies are convenient and affordable. Here's a simple guide to buying headache medications safely and quickly during your visit.

Common Painkillers in Vietnam

Pharmacies commonly stock these medications without prescription:

• Paracetamol
  
  

• Brands: Panadol, Hapacol, Efferalgan (effervescent tablets)

• Use: General headache, fever relief, mild pain.

• Dosage: Usually 500 mg tablets. A common Vietnamese brand, Hapacol, often comes in 650 mg—take no more than one tablet at a time.
  
  

• Ibuprofen
  
  

• Brands: Gofen (400 mg), generic ibuprofen tablets (200 mg or 400 mg)

• Use: Headaches with inflammation, migraines.

• Dosage: Typically 200–400 mg per dose; maximum around 1200 mg per day.
  
  

• Combination Products
  
  

• Brands: Tydol Plus (Paracetamol 500 mg + caffeine 65 mg), Paramex (contains antihistamines too)

• Use: Effective for migraines or headaches accompanied by tiredness. Note: caffeine may worsen dehydration symptoms.
  
  

• Codeine-Containing Painkillers (Tydol Codeine)
  
  

• Available but regulated due to opioid content. Use cautiously and only for severe pain.

Where to Buy Medication in Vietnam

• Reliable pharmacy chains:
  
  

• Pharmacity (popular, reliable, English-speaking staff)

• Large pharmacy stores clearly labeled “nhà thuốc” (pharmacy)
  
  

Avoid street-side stalls or small market pharmacies to reduce risks of counterfeit products.

Prices & Cost Expectations

Painkillers are very affordable in Vietnam:

• Paracetamol (Panadol or Hapacol) typically costs between 5,000–10,000 VND (~0.20–0.40 USD) for a blister pack of 10 tablets.

• Ibuprofen (Gofen 400 mg) about 15,000–20,000 VND (~0.60–0.85 USD).
  
  

Useful Language Tips

Most pharmacists in big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City understand basic English. However, these tips will make buying simpler:

• Say clearly: "Paracetamol" or "Ibuprofen"—these international terms are widely understood.

• If you experience language difficulties, write the medication name down or show it on your phone screen.

Practical Traveler Advice

• Check packaging carefully. Medications typically come in blister packs clearly showing drug name and expiration date. It's normal for pharmacists to cut blister packs; just ensure labels remain clear.

• Popular advice from expats: Vietnamese doctors commonly recommend paracetamol first. It’s gentle on the stomach and effectively reduces headaches due to heat or dehydration.

• If your headache is heat-related, buy a rehydration salt pack (ORS)—available cheaply in pharmacies. Drinking this alongside paracetamol provides quick relief.

Risks & Precautions

Counterfeit medication isn't common in major pharmacy chains, but always:

• Verify that packaging is factory-sealed with clear labels.

• Avoid loose pills sold without original packaging.

• If unsure, choose a well-known brand like Panadol or Hapacol.

Buying painkillers in Vietnam is straightforward, quick, and budget-friendly, ensuring headaches don't spoil your travel plans.

India: Navigating Pharmacies for Headache Relief

India is renowned for its accessible, affordable pharmacies stocked with effective painkillers. Here’s how to safely choose and purchase headache medication during your travels.

Popular Painkillers in India

These common medications are easily available in Indian pharmacies:

• Paracetamol
  
  

• Brands: Crocin, Dolo 650 (650 mg tablet, very popular)

• Use: General headaches, mild pain, fever.

• Dosage: Usually 500–650 mg per tablet; take no more than 4g/day.
  
  

• Ibuprofen
  
  

• Brands: Brufen (generic name), Combiflam (combines Ibuprofen 400 mg + Paracetamol 325 mg)

• Use: Strong headaches, migraine relief, body pain.

• Dosage: 200–400 mg per dose. Combiflam is popular for quick relief, but avoid additional Paracetamol or Ibuprofen simultaneously.
  
  

• Combination Medications
  
  

• Saridon: (Paracetamol + Propiphenazone + Caffeine), effective for fast headache relief, popular with locals.

• Disprin (Aspirin): Effervescent aspirin tablets, often used for headaches, including hangovers.

Where to Buy Medications in India

Pharmacies in India are widely available and labeled as:

• Medical Store, Pharmacy, or Chemist

• Well-known chains: Apollo Pharmacy, MedPlus (common in major cities).

You’ll often find pharmacies every few blocks, even in smaller towns. Medications typically don’t require prescriptions for basic pain relief.

Cost Expectations

Painkillers in India are extremely affordable:

• Paracetamol (Crocin/Dolo): ₹10–₹20 (~$0.15–$0.30 USD) per strip of 10 tablets.

• Ibuprofen (Brufen): ₹15–₹30 (~$0.20–$0.40 USD) per strip.

• Combiflam: ₹25–₹40 (~$0.35–$0.55 USD) per strip.
  
  

Practical Advice for Travelers

• Pharmacies may sell medications as single blister strips instead of complete boxes. This is common and safe; just ensure the strip clearly states the drug name and expiry date.

• Many pharmacists understand basic English terms like “Paracetamol,” “Ibuprofen,” or “headache medicine.”

• If experiencing headaches accompanied by digestive issues (“Delhi belly”), buy Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) alongside painkillers, as dehydration often triggers headaches.
  
  

Language Tips

Pharmacists understand basic English, but useful local terms include:

• Headache: Simply say "headache tablets" or "medicine for headache," and pharmacists will help immediately.

• Brands like Crocin or Saridon are universally recognized if you ask directly.

Risks & Precautions

Counterfeits are uncommon in licensed pharmacies, but always check:

• Expiry dates on packaging.

• Condition of pills (avoid tablets that look altered or discolored).

• If uncertain, choose medications produced by reputable Indian pharma companies like Cipla, Sun Pharma, or Dr. Reddy’s.
  
  

Also, avoid buying strong medications (e.g., codeine) without a prescription, as misuse can cause legal problems.

Indonesia: Choosing Painkillers on Bali, Java, and Beyond

Indonesia offers convenient access to safe, effective painkillers. Whether you're on Bali beaches or exploring Java, here’s how to quickly find relief from headaches.

Common Painkillers in Indonesia

Pharmacies and even convenience stores carry these widely-used headache remedies:

• Bodrex (most popular local brand)

• Ingredients: Paracetamol + caffeine

• Use: General headaches, fatigue-related pain

• Variants:

• Bodrex Migra: Stronger, includes propiphenazone (for migraines)

• Bodrex Extra: Contains Ibuprofen for stronger pain relief
  
  

• Paramex
  
  

• Ingredients: Paracetamol, propiphenazone, caffeine, antihistamine

• Use: Good for headaches with cold symptoms, but may cause slight drowsiness
  
  

• Panadol
  
  

• Ingredients: Pure Paracetamol

• Use: Simple headaches, fever relief; gentle on the stomach
  
  

• Ibuprofen (Branded as Proris, Advil, Bodrex IB)
  
  

• Use: Headaches with inflammation, migraine, menstrual cramps

• Dosage: Typically 200–400 mg per tablet
  
  

Where to Buy in Indonesia

• Apotek (Pharmacies): Widely available in cities, towns, and tourist areas.

• Popular chains include Kimia Farma, Guardian, Century.

• Convenience stores & minimarts: Often stock small packs of Bodrex, Paramex, or Panadol near checkouts.
  
  

Always buy medications from pharmacies or trusted stores to ensure authenticity.

Typical Costs

Indonesian painkillers are very affordable:

• Bodrex or Paramex: About 2,000–5,000 IDR ($0.10–$0.35 USD) per small pack (4 tablets).

• Panadol: Slightly more, around 10,000–15,000 IDR ($0.65–$1 USD).

Tips for Easy Purchases

• Ask directly by brand: "Bodrex, please" or "Panadol."

• For pure Paracetamol without caffeine (important if sensitive), specify: "Paracetamol only."

• Useful Indonesian phrases:

• “Sakit kepala” (pronounced sah-keet keh-pa-la): literally "headache."
  
  

Practical Traveler Advice

• Bodrex (with caffeine) works quickly and is popular among expats for headaches due to tiredness or mild hangovers.

• In hot, humid climates (Bali), pure Paracetamol (Panadol) without caffeine may be safer, helping prevent dehydration.

• Combine headache medication with coconut water or electrolyte drinks readily available in minimarts for quicker relief.
  
  

Risks & Precautions

• Counterfeit painkillers are rare but always:
  
  

• Verify sealed, clearly labeled packages.

• Avoid street or market purchases.
  
  

• Ensure proper storage conditions: prefer pharmacies or stores with air conditioning to avoid heat-damaged pills.
  
  

Japan: Finding Headache Relief Safely and Easily

Japan is well-known for its strict medication regulations, but common painkillers are widely available over-the-counter. Here's what you need to know to buy headache relief medication quickly during your visit.

Popular Painkillers in Japan

In Japanese pharmacies, these are the main headache medications you can buy without a prescription:

• Eve (イブ)
  
  

• Ingredient: Ibuprofen (150–200 mg per tablet)

• Variants: Eve Quick, Eve A

• Use: Effective for general headaches, migraines, menstrual pain

• Dosage: Usually 2 tablets per dose, up to 3 times daily.
  
  

• Bufferin (バファリン)
  
  

• Ingredients: Aspirin or combination of Aspirin and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)

• Variants: Bufferin Premium (Aspirin + Acetaminophen + Ibuprofen)

• Use: Stronger headaches or migraines

• Dosage: Typically 1–2 tablets per dose, up to 2–3 times daily.
  
  

• Loxonin S (ロキソニンS)
  
  

• Ingredient: Loxoprofen (NSAID similar to Ibuprofen)

• Use: Popular for headaches, back pain, menstrual cramps; strong but gentle on stomach

• Dosage: Usually one tablet per dose, up to three times daily.
  
  

• Tylenol (タイレノール)
  
  

• Ingredient: Acetaminophen (Paracetamol), typically 300 mg per tablet

• Use: Gentle headache relief, safe for stomach; no caffeine

• Dosage: Usually 1 tablet per dose, up to 3–4 times daily.
  
  

Where to Buy Medications in Japan

Pharmacies (Drugstores) are easy to find across cities, marked clearly with:

• 薬 (kusuri) – medicine

• Red cross symbol or "Drugstore" signage

• Chains such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, and Tsuruha Drug are trusted and have staff familiar with basic English terms.

Headache medication usually sits behind the pharmacy counter—simply ask the pharmacist for help.

Typical Costs

Painkillers are reasonably priced but cost more than other Asian countries:

• Eve Quick (40 tablets): About ¥1,200–¥1,600 (~$9–$12 USD)

• Bufferin Premium (20 tablets): About ¥1,000 (~$7 USD)

• Tylenol (10 tablets): About ¥700–¥900 (~$5–$6 USD)
  
  

How to Buy Easily (Language Tips)

If you’re unsure of your Japanese, simply say or show:

• "Zutsuu-yaku" (頭痛薬) means "headache medicine."

• Mentioning brand names like "Eve Quick" or "Bufferin Premium" makes it simpler.

• Most pharmacies understand basic English terms, such as "headache" or "ibuprofen."
  
  

Practical Tips from Travelers

• Medication packaging in Japan often includes clear instructions, sometimes with English translations.

• Japanese painkillers are often formulated with stomach-protective ingredients (e.g., Eve Quick includes magnesium oxide).

• Cooling pads (Hie-pita) or menthol roll-on sticks sold in pharmacies are popular non-medicinal options for quick headache relief, especially useful in hot weather.
  
  

Risks & Precautions

• Counterfeit medications are virtually non-existent in Japanese pharmacies due to strict regulations.

• Always follow the recommended dosage precisely—Japanese medications often have lower doses per tablet, so check the packaging carefully.

• Avoid purchasing multiple painkillers simultaneously without checking active ingredients to prevent accidental overdose.
  
  

Comparison of International Brands and Local Equivalents

When you're traveling and dealing with headaches, understanding local equivalents of familiar medicines helps you quickly and safely find relief. Here’s a simple comparison chart to guide you:

Tips for Selecting Medication:

• General Headaches or Fever: Paracetamol (Panadol, Tylenol) is gentle and ideal, especially if dehydrated or sensitive stomach.

• Headaches with Inflammation or Migraine: Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Advil, Eve) is effective but should be taken after meals to avoid stomach irritation.

• Headaches with Fatigue or Mild Migraines: Combination medications (Panadol Extra, Saridon, Bodrex) contain caffeine, which boosts effectiveness but may increase dehydration risks—hydrate well.

• Hangover Headaches: Prefer Ibuprofen or effervescent Aspirin; avoid paracetamol immediately after heavy drinking.
  
  

Quick Tips for Specific Headache Situations in Asia

Dealing with Heat-Related and Dehydration Headaches

Headaches triggered by extreme heat and dehydration are common when traveling in tropical Asian climates. In such situations, paracetamol is your best option—it’s gentle on the stomach and less taxing on your kidneys compared to ibuprofen or aspirin. However, pain relief alone isn’t sufficient. It’s equally important to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Pharmacies across Asia commonly stock oral rehydration solutions (ORS), which quickly restore hydration and essential minerals. Drinking these electrolyte mixtures, combined with regular water or coconut water, will rapidly ease headache symptoms and protect against heat exhaustion.

Headaches from Food Poisoning or Digestive Issues

If you experience headaches accompanied by gastrointestinal discomfort—often from unfamiliar foods—choose paracetamol, as it doesn’t aggravate nausea or irritate your stomach. Additionally, you’ll benefit from supporting your digestive recovery with activated charcoal or probiotics, both widely available in Asian pharmacies. Hydration is vital, so sipping on electrolyte solutions or clear fluids throughout the day will also assist your body’s recovery and prevent further headaches linked to dehydration.

Coping with Migraines While Traveling

Migraine sufferers traveling in Asia can find effective relief with ibuprofen-based medications like Eve Quick (Japan) or Nurofen (Thailand). Combination painkillers containing caffeine, such as Bodrex Migra (Indonesia) or Saridon (India), may also help reduce migraine severity, especially if taken early at the onset of symptoms. For severe migraine episodes, pharmacies in major tourist areas occasionally stock prescription-grade medications like Sumatriptan. If your migraine feels unusually severe, consider consulting a pharmacist or local clinic—many pharmacists are knowledgeable and can guide you to the best treatment options available.

Relief from Hangover-Related Headaches

Hangover headaches are frequent vacation spoilers. In this case, avoid paracetamol immediately after drinking alcohol, as it can strain your liver further. Ibuprofen or effervescent aspirin (e.g., Disprin in India or Bufferin Premium in Japan) is safer and often more effective for hangover headaches. Alongside these medications, aggressive hydration is key—drink plenty of water and electrolytes. Asian markets commonly carry helpful hydration solutions like Pocari Sweat in Japan, coconut water on Bali, or locally available sports drinks. These will accelerate your recovery by replenishing lost fluids and easing headache symptoms swiftly.

Being mindful about selecting medications based on the type of headache and actively rehydrating will ensure your travels remain enjoyable and pain-free.

Final Recommendations for Safely Handling Medications While Traveling in Asia

Prepare a Basic Travel Medical Kit

While this guide has shown that effective painkillers are widely available in Asia, the best approach is always prevention and preparation. Before your journey, pack a simple medical kit containing essentials like paracetamol, ibuprofen, electrolyte packs (ORS), activated charcoal, and any prescription medications you regularly use. Having these basics on hand means immediate relief, avoiding unnecessary trips to pharmacies during emergencies or inconvenient times.

Trust, but Verify Your Medication Purchases

Asian pharmacies generally offer safe and reliable medications. Nevertheless, it’s wise to stay vigilant. Always examine medication packaging closely for signs of tampering, clear expiration dates, and official quality seals. Check that the medication matches your intended active ingredient, especially if purchasing unfamiliar local brands. Avoid buying medications from street vendors or informal markets—stick to recognized pharmacies or pharmacy chains for consistent quality and peace of mind.

Keep Track of What You’re Taking

When purchasing medications abroad, be careful not to unintentionally double-dose active ingredients. Many local painkillers combine multiple drugs, making it easy to accidentally consume too much of one substance (e.g., paracetamol). Always read labels carefully, and if unsure, ask the pharmacist directly. It helps to keep notes of what you've taken and when, particularly if managing symptoms with multiple medications.

Consult Pharmacists or Healthcare Professionals

Pharmacists in major tourist areas throughout Asia are typically knowledgeable, helpful, and accustomed to travelers' health concerns. Don’t hesitate to describe your symptoms clearly and ask for advice. In more severe cases or if symptoms persist, seek professional medical attention promptly. Many tourist-friendly cities have clinics or hospitals with English-speaking doctors available specifically for visitors.

Understand Medication Transportation Rules

Lastly, familiarize yourself with medication regulations, especially when leaving Asia or returning home. Some medications freely available in Asian countries might be controlled or banned in your home country, especially stronger painkillers containing codeine. Keep medications in their original packaging, and retain pharmacy receipts or prescriptions if applicable. This practice simplifies customs checks and prevents potential legal complications.

Traveling prepared, informed, and cautious ensures you handle headaches and medication safely throughout your Asian adventure, allowing you to fully enjoy every moment of your trip.