Dangers of Vicks VapoRub

Vicks VapoRub, a nonprescription remedy for colds, aches, pains and congestion, rarely causes serious side effects. According to Mayo Clinic physician Jay Hoecker, Vicks VapoRub is completely safe when it is used as directed. However, when it is used inappropriately, this product may be associated with significant dangers and side effects.

Unless otherwise directed by your health care provider, follow the manufacturer's guidelines when using Vicks Vaporub for any purpose.

Burns

A common folk remedy involves heating Vicks VapoRub to enhance its medicinal value Some people place the product in a microwave or mix it into boiling water. Vicks VapoRub's manufacturers sternly warn against this use. Camphor and essential oils in Vicks VapoRub heat surprisingly quickly and may cause serious burns.

Respiratory Problems

Despite its most common use as a cough suppressant and nasal decongestant, Vicks VapoRub may actually trigger dangerous episodes of airway inflammation, particularly in babies. Vicks VapoRub should never be used in infants or young toddlers under two years of age. An alarming report by the American College of Chest Physicians refers to a one-and-a-half-year-old girl who nearly died of respiratory problems after inhaling Vicks VapoRub.

Camphor Poisoning

About 5% of Vicks VapoRub's total mass comes from camphor, a plant-based product renowned for its medicinal properties. When swallowed, products containing camphor can cause life-threatening poisoning. The New York City Health Department advises parents to keep camphor products away from children, noting that camphor poisoning may cause seizures, vomiting and mental confusion. Young children may be especially likely to eat Vicks VapoRub and other scented medications.

Safety in Pregnancy and Lactation

The Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS), a professional organization that seeks to prevent birth defects, considers Vicks VapoRub to be safe pregnant women when it is used as directed. However, its long-term effects are as yet unevaluated by the rigors of modern scientific inquiry. If you are breastfeeding a child under two years of age, be sure to wash all traces of Vicks VapoRub off your chest before nursing your baby. The vapors could theoretically trigger respiratory problems for the child.