The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare is considering allowing over-the-counter sales of test kits that measure blood glucose levels using a fingertip prick, and has indicated a policy of encouraging early medical consultations for diabetes, assuming sales through drugstores as early as fiscal 2027.
The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare is considering lifting restrictions on advertising and over-the-counter sales of test kits that measure a small blood sample obtained from a fingertip. Under current rules, advertising and sales are restricted because the tests use a needle, but discussions are expected to move forward shortly as consideration is given to lifting the restrictions.
Lifting the restrictions on the test kits is intended to create an environment in which people suspected of having diabetes can conduct self-tests using products sold over the counter and thereby encourage early medical consultations. The specific launch timing and distribution channels will depend on future discussions.
The discussion is expected to be led by the Medical Devices and In Vitro Diagnostics Subcommittee of the Pharmaceutical Affairs and Food Sanitation Council. The focus will be on how to change the rules governing advertising and sales of tests that impose a physical burden on users.
The article does not provide any formal decision or specific product names or pricing information. Further updates are expected through future official announcements and minutes of the relevant subcommittee.