Overview
- The health ministry presented a draft list identifying 77 active ingredients—about 1,100 products—as candidates for an added charge on patient co‑payments.
- Examples on the draft list include Hildoid gel and Loxonin tablets, which have comparable over‑the‑counter options.
- A ministry advisory panel approved a reform outline that would add a 25% surcharge to these drugs while keeping them insured, with implementation eyed for March 2027, according to Nishinippon.
- Exemptions under consideration include children and patients with designated intractable diseases or cancer, the paper reported.
- The measure remains a proposal subject to consultations and formal adoption, and the government plans to submit related legislation in the next ordinary Diet session.