Translation guide
The English word "medication" refers to substances used for medical treatment. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 薬 (くすり), but the appropriate term depends on form, context, and formality. This guide covers general, specific, and clinical uses.
Referring to medication in a broad, everyday sense—pills, liquids, etc. taken to treat illness or symptoms.
The most common and versatile word for medicine or drugs. Can refer to both prescription and over-the-counter medication. Used in casual and polite contexts.
この薬を1日3回飲んでください。
Please take this medication three times a day.
薬は食後に飲んだほうがいいですよ。
It's better to take the medication after meals.
A more formal term for pharmaceutical products or medicinal drugs. Often used in official contexts, labels, and medical settings.
この医薬品は処方箋が必要です。
This medication requires a prescription.
A technical term for medicinal substances or chemicals. Used in pharmaceutical and medical contexts.
薬剤の副作用に注意してください。
Please be aware of the side effects of the medication.
Specifically referring to medication that is prescribed by a doctor.
Literally 'prescription drug'. The standard term for prescription medication.
処方薬は医師の指示通りに服用してください。
Please take the prescription medication as directed by your doctor.
A more conversational way to say 'prescribed medication'. Uses the common word 薬.
処方された薬が効いているみたいです。
The prescribed medication seems to be working.
Medication that can be bought without a prescription.
The standard term for over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Literally 'market-sold medicine'.
市販薬で十分かもしれません。
Over-the-counter medication might be enough.
Another term for OTC drugs, often used in pharmacy contexts. Slightly more formal.
Medication in liquid form, such as syrups or solutions.
Specifically refers to liquid medicine. Commonly used in medical and pharmacy settings.
子供には水薬のほうが飲みやすいです。
Liquid medication is easier for children to take.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'liquid medicine'. Easily understood in everyday conversation.
液体の薬は冷蔵庫に入れてください。
Please put the liquid medication in the refrigerator.
Medication applied to the skin or body surface.
General term for topical medication like ointments or creams. Literally 'medicine to apply'.
この塗り薬を1日2回塗ってください。
Please apply this medication twice a day.
A more formal term for external-use medication. Often seen on labels and in medical instructions.
How to say 'take medication' in Japanese, depending on form.
The most common way to say 'take medicine', literally 'drink medicine'. Used for oral medication (pills, liquids).
毎日薬を飲まなければなりません。
I have to take medication every day.
A more formal verb for 'take medication', often used in medical contexts or written instructions.
食後に薬を服用してください。
Please take the medication after meals.
Used for applying topical medication (ointments, creams).
1日3回、患部に薬を塗ってください。
Please apply the medication to the affected area three times a day.
The word 薬 (くすり) can also mean 'drugs' in the sense of narcotics. Context usually makes it clear, but be aware of the double meaning. For clarity in medical contexts, use 医薬品 or 処方薬.
薬物乱用は危険です。
Drug abuse is dangerous.
薬 is the everyday word. 医薬品 is formal and often used in official documents or pharmacy settings. 薬剤 is technical and used by healthcare professionals. For most learners, 薬 is sufficient.
何か薬を飲んでいますか？
Are you taking any medication?
この薬は眠気を引き起こすことがあります。
This medication may cause drowsiness.
大衆薬のコーナーはあちらです。
The over-the-counter medication section is over there.
外用薬は目に入らないように注意してください。
Be careful not to get the external medication in your eyes.