When used as directed, the over-the-counter cold remedy Vicks VapoRub is generally considered to be safe. Mayo Clinic's Dr. Jay L. Hoecker regards Vicks VapoRub as a harmless remedy, but notes a lack of conclusive evidence to support its folk use as a nasal decongestant. The active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub include menthol, camphor and eucalyptus oil, which are natural products associated with few side effects. Nevertheless, Vicks VapoRub may trigger complications if it is used incorrectly.
Breathing Difficulty
Ironically, Vicks VapoRub may worsen some of the problems that it is intended to treat. The product label specifically warns against the use of Vicks VapoRub in children under two years of age. Infants and young toddlers may experience airway inflammation and respiratory difficulty after direct exposure to eucalyptus oil and other compounds in Vicks VapoRub. In a January 2009 report, the American College of Chest Physicians cited a case-report involving an 18-month-old girl who experienced near-fatal respiratory problems after inhaling Vicks VapoRub.
Camphor Toxicity
Camphor comprises 4.8% of Vicks VapoRub's total volume. Although Vicks VapoRub is approved for topical use, the manufacturers strongly warn against using the product orally or internally. A warning by the New York City Health Department advised parents to keep all camphor products out of reach of children. The department stated that camphor poisoning, which occurs within 30 minutes of ingestion, can cause seizures, vomiting and severe anxiety. In theory, topical Vicks VapoRub may trigger similar symptoms when it is applied in massive quantities. The Health Department urges patients to use it only according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pregnancy and Nursing
No studies have evaluated Vicks VapoRub's possible effects during pregnancy and lactation. According to the parenting information website BabyCenter, the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists regards Vicks VapoRub as a safe option for pregnant women coping with coughs and colds. Lactating mothers should use extreme caution when handling Vicks VapoRub; the vapors could trigger breathing problems in the breastfeeding baby. If you use Vicks VapoRub on your chest, shower thoroughly to remove residue before nursing your child.
Burns
A common folk remedy utilizes heated Vicks VapoRub to enhance its muscle-relaxing and cough-suppressing effects. The manufacturers of Vicks VapoRub do not recommend against this home remedy. When microwaved or placed in boiling water, Vicks VapoRub can become dangerously hot and may splatter. This could result in severe burns.
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