The Directory is one of the important basis for Japanese authorities to supervise the use of ingredients, and mainly involves two lists. One includes ingredients that are considered as drugs (Drug List), the other lists ingredients not deemed drugs unless claiming medicinal efficacy (Non-drugs List). Before importing, enterprises can independently confirm whether the product contains pharmaceutical ingredients recognized by Japan through the Drug List and Non-drug List.

According to the latest revision, the MHLW added new substances to Drug List and Non-drug List and introduced a new "Scientific Name" column for plant-derived ingredients in Non-drug List.