How GLP-1 consultations work in Japan (simple explanation)

I work at a pharmacy in Tokyo, and a lot of visitors (and even locals) are really confused about how GLP-1 prescriptions work here.
So here’s a simple, non-medical explanation of what the typical process looks like from the pharmacy side:

1. You always need a doctor’s consultation

Japan doesn’t allow dispensing weight management meds (Mounjaro, Ozempic, etc.) without a doctor reviewing your case first.
Most consultations are pretty short, often 3minutes, but they must be done. And it's mostly about the confirmation of name, medication history and the dose you want to/can get.

1. The prescription is sent electronically

In most clinics, the prescription comes through an electronic system directly to the pharmacy.
From the pharmacy side, we only dispense what the clinic has prescribed.

1. Pickup or delivery depends on the clinic

Most clinics allow pick-up in person as well as delivery service.
This part varies a lot not standardized, for example, some clinics do both domestic and international delivery, but some only do domestically.

That’s the general outline.
If anyone has questions about how the system works (not medical advice), I’m happy to clarify.
Japan’s process is pretty straightforward but very regulated.