LOXONIN S is one of Japan’s most popular over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. If you’re experiencing a headache, toothache, or menstrual cramps while visiting or living in Japan, you may find LOXONIN S at most drugstores. This guide explains how it works, when to use it, and important precautions to help you use it safely.

Quick Summary

💊 Type
NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever.

✅ Best For
Headaches, toothaches, menstrual cramps, muscle pain, joint pain, sore throat, and fever.

⏱️ Starts Working
Usually within about 30 minutes.

🥛 How to Take
Take with a full glass of water. If possible, take it after meals to help reduce the risk of stomach irritation.

🏥 Available in Japan
Class 1 OTC medicine. A pharmacist must be available to provide important safety information before purchase.

⚠️ Do Not Use If
You have an NSAID allergy, a history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, NSAID-induced asthma, severe kidney, liver, or heart disease, a blood disorder, or are in the last trimester of pregnancy.

What is LOXONIN S?

LOXONIN S is an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer available in Japan.

• Brand name: LOXONIN S
• Active ingredient: Loxoprofen sodium hydrate
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

Loxoprofen works by reducing the production of substances in the body called prostaglandins, which are involved in pain, inflammation, and fever.

International Availability

Loxoprofen is marketed in several countries and regions, although it is not as widely available as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Examples include:

• Japan: LOXONIN S®
• South Korea: Loxo®
• China: Loxonin® (available in some markets)

In many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most of Europe, loxoprofen is not commonly available. Instead, pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen (paracetamol) are more widely used.

If you are unfamiliar with LOXONIN S (loxoprofen), think of it as another type of NSAID, similar to ibuprofen, that is commonly used in Japan for pain and fever relief.

When to Use LOXONIN S

LOXONIN S may help relieve:

• Headache
• Toothache
• Menstrual cramps
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Sore throat
• Fever associated with a cold or other minor illness

How to Take LOXONIN S

Dosage and Directions

• Adults (15 years and older): Take 1 tablet when needed.
• Take the medicine with a full glass of water. If possible, take it after meals to reduce stomach irritation.
• If symptoms persist, you may take another tablet after at least 4 hours.
• Do not take more than 3 tablets in 24 hours.
• Do not use this medicine for children under 15 years of age.

Who Should Avoid LOXONIN S?

LOXONIN S is not suitable for everyone. Do not take this medicine if you:

• Have ever had an allergic reaction to loxoprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs
• Have a history of stomach or duodenal ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Have asthma that has been triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Have been diagnosed with a blood disorder or abnormal blood cell counts
• Have severe kidney, liver, or heart disease
• Are in the last trimester of pregnancy

If any of these apply to you, consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking LOXONIN S.

Possible Side Effects

Like all medicines, LOXONIN S can cause side effects.

Common side effects include:

• Stomach discomfort
• Heartburn
• Nausea

Serious but uncommon side effects may include:

• Stomach bleeding
• Severe allergic reactions
• Kidney problems
• Severe skin reactions

Stop taking the medicine and seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, black stools, or severe skin rash.

Pharmacist’s Tips

• LOXONIN S usually starts to relieve pain within about 30 minutes, making it a fast-acting pain reliever.
• Because LOXONIN S may irritate the stomach, take it with a full glass of water, especially if you need to take it on an empty stomach.
• Taking LOXONIN S after a meal may help reduce the risk of stomach irritation.
• If you have a sensitive stomach, acetaminophen may be a better choice than LOXONIN S.

Before You Buy LOXONIN S in Japan

LOXONIN S is classified as a Class 1 OTC medicine in Japan.

This means that a pharmacist must be available to provide important safety information before the medicine is sold. Depending on the store, you may be asked a few questions about your symptoms, medical history, allergies, or any medicines you are currently taking.

If a pharmacist is not available, you may need to wait or visit another pharmacy or drugstore before you can purchase LOXONIN S.

Although LOXONIN S can be purchased without a prescription in Japan, it is a medicine that should be used carefully. Be sure to follow the package directions and ask a pharmacist if you have any questions.

Official English Product Information

If you would like more detailed information, DAIICHI SANKYO HEALTHCARE provides an official English information sheet for LOXONIN S.

📄 Official English Product Information (PDF)
https://www.daiichisankyo-hc.co.jp/products/package_insert_foreign/pdf/loxonin-s_1.pdf

This document is published by the manufacturer and is intended to help pharmacists provide medication information to non-Japanese speakers in Japan. It contains important information on indications, dosage, precautions, contraindications, and possible side effects.

For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official document and consult a pharmacist if you have any questions.

When to See a Doctor

Stop taking LOXONIN S and seek medical attention if:

• Your pain or fever does not improve or becomes worse.
• You develop severe stomach pain, black stools, or vomit blood.
• You experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a severe skin rash.
• You develop signs of an allergic reaction.
• Your symptoms last longer than expected or keep coming back.

If you are unsure whether LOXONIN S is appropriate for you, consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking it.

General Precautions

• Always read and follow the instructions on the product label before use.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store the medicine according to the package instructions.
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a chronic medical condition, or take other medications, consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine.
• If your symptoms do not improve or become worse, stop using the medicine and seek medical advice.