When staying or traveling in Korea, you may unexpectedly experience headaches, diarrhea, constipation, menstrual cramps or a fever.
Knowing the right over-the-counter medications to quickly and effectively treat these symptoms can be helpful.
This post introduces common medicines you can easily find in Korea and recommends the best ones for each symptom.
1. Medicines for Headaches - Tylenol Products
Headaches are a common issue, and in Korea, Tylenol is one of the most popular and widely available pain relievers. Tylenol contains acetaminophen (paracetamol), which helps to reduce headaches, muscle pain, and fever.
Tylenol 500mg: This standard painkiller is great for general headaches. Adults can take 1 tablet every 4–6 hours, with a maximum of 8 tablets per day.
Tylenol ER (Extended Release): This long-lasting version of Tylenol is ideal for chronic pain. Take 2 tablets every 8 hours, with a maximum of 6 tablets per day.
Tylenol Cold: This version is helpful if you have a headache and nasal congestion due to a cold. It provides relief from cold symptoms and headaches at the same time.
2. Medicines for Diarrhea - Choosing the Right One
Depending on the cause of diarrhea, different medications may be needed.
Here are some effective anti-diarrhea medications you can find in Korea.
Shazhen(샤젠): This is an antibacterial agent used for diarrhea caused by food poisoning or bacterial infections. It works by controlling bacteria in the gut.
Talstop(탈스탑): This medicine is recommended when diarrhea is accompanied by abdominal pain. It helps regulate bowel movements and reduces cramping.
Lactostop(락토스탑): A combination of loperamide and probiotics, Lactostop is a comprehensive remedy that replenishes good bacteria in the gut while also stopping diarrhea.
Lopain(로파인): This medication is effective for acute watery diarrhea. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea by slowing down intestinal movement.
Potagel(포타겔): If you're unsure about the cause of your diarrhea, Potagel is a safe choice. It protects the intestinal lining and absorbs toxins, reducing various types of diarrhea.
3. Medicines for Constipation - Top Choices for Constipation Relief
If you're suffering from constipation in Korea, here are some effective over-the-counter options:
Bicogreen S(비코그린 에스): This medicine softens stool and stimulates bowel movements, providing quick relief from constipation.
Makin Q(메이킨 큐): Made from natural ingredients, Makin Q is a good option for chronic constipation. It helps restore intestinal health with regular use.
MT Tablets(엠티 정): These contain magnesium, which helps stimulate bowel movements and soften stool. It’s particularly helpful for dry or hard stools that are difficult to pass.
4. Fever-Reducing Medications
If you're experiencing a fever, it's important to bring your temperature down quickly.
In Korea, Tylenol is widely available and effective at reducing fever.
Tylenol 500mg: This pain reliever and fever reducer is ideal for managing fevers. Adults can take 1 tablet every 4–6 hours, with a maximum of 8 tablets per day.
Children’s Tylenol Suspension: This is a fast-acting fever reducer for children as young as 4 months old. The dosage depends on the child's weight, and it should not be given more than 5 times in 24 hours.
5. Pain Relief for Menstrual Cramps
For women experiencing menstrual cramps, it's important to have a pain reliever that targets the unique symptoms associated with menstruation.
Here’s a recommendation for an effective menstrual pain relief option available in Korea.
Women’s Tylenol (우먼스타이레놀정): This is a pain reliever specifically designed for menstrual cramps. It can be taken even before menstruation starts, offering relief from premenstrual tension, bloating, cramps, lower back pain, and headaches.
Key Ingredients: Acetaminophen (for pain relief) andPamabrom, which helps reduce water retention and premenstrual bloating.
Caffeine-Free: Unlike many other pain relievers, Women’s Tylenol iscaffeine-free, making it a gentler option for women’s bodies during menstruation.
This product not only targets menstrual pain but also helps alleviate the physical discomforts that can arise before and during your period, making it a comprehensive solution for menstrual health.
Important Tips for Foreigners Taking Medicine in Korea
1. Read Labels: Korean medicine labels may be in Korean, so if you're unsure, ask the pharmacist for an English explanation or guidance.
2. Follow Dosage Instructions: Always follow the dosage recommendations on the label. Dosages for children differ from those for adults, so be sure to follow instructions carefully.
3. Consult a Doctor: If your symptoms are severe or persist, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before taking any medication.
When you experience headaches, diarrhea, constipation, or fever in Korea, having the right medication on hand can make all the difference.
Korea offers a wide variety of over-the-counter medicines such as Tylenol, Shazhen, and Potagel for quick and effective relief.
Always read the label and follow the recommended dosage instructions.
If you’re unsure, consult a pharmacist or doctor to ensure you’re taking the right medication for your condition.