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Chest Rub

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Active ingredients
  • Eucalyptus Oil 12 mg/1 g
  • Menthol 26 mg/1 g
  • Camphor (natural) 48 mg/1 g
Other brand names
Dosage form
Cream
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2009
Label revision date
February 16, 2026
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredients
  • Eucalyptus Oil 12 mg/1 g
  • Menthol 26 mg/1 g
  • Camphor (natural) 48 mg/1 g
Other brand names
Dosage form
Cream
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2009
Label revision date
February 16, 2026
Manufacturer
Valu Merchandisers Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
63941-248
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info (2 NDCs)
Packaging & NDC Codes (2)

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

Best Choice® is a medicated chest rub that serves multiple purposes. It acts as a cough suppressant, providing temporary relief from coughs caused by the common cold when applied to your chest and throat. Additionally, it functions as a topical analgesic, helping to alleviate minor aches and pains when used on muscles and joints.

This product is similar to the active ingredients found in Vicks® VaporRub*, making it a familiar option for those seeking relief from cold symptoms and muscle discomfort. With a net weight of 1.76 ounces (50 grams), it's designed for easy application to help you feel more comfortable.

Uses

You can use this product to help relieve a cough caused by the common cold when applied to your chest and throat. It works temporarily to ease your discomfort, making it easier for you to breathe and feel more comfortable.

Additionally, if you're experiencing minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints, applying this product can provide temporary relief. Whether it's from physical activity or just everyday wear and tear, it can help soothe those bothersome sensations.

Dosage and Administration

For adults and children aged 2 years and older, you can apply a thick layer of the medication to your chest and throat, or directly onto sore, aching muscles. If you like, you can cover the area with a warm, dry cloth to enhance the effect. To ensure the vapors can easily reach your nose and mouth, keep your clothing loose around your throat and chest. You can repeat this application up to three times within a 24-hour period, or follow your doctor's specific instructions.

If you have a child under 2 years of age, it's important to consult a doctor before using this medication.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this product safely to avoid any harmful effects. You should never take it by mouth, apply it with tight bandages, use it in your nostrils, or put it on wounds or damaged skin. These actions can lead to serious complications.

Additionally, when using this product, avoid heating it in any way. Do not microwave it or add it to hot water, as this can cause splattering and potentially result in burns. Following these guidelines will help ensure your safety while using the product.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this product is for external use only, and you should avoid contact with your eyes. If you experience muscle aches and pains that last more than 7 days or return after improving, it's important to stop using the product and consult a doctor. Additionally, if you have a cough that persists for more than 7 days, returns, or occurs alongside fever, rash, or a persistent headache, these could be signs of a more serious condition, and you should seek medical advice.

Warnings and Precautions

You should only use this product externally and be careful to avoid contact with your eyes. If you accidentally swallow it, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

If you experience muscle aches and pains that last more than 7 days or return after stopping, please stop using the product and consult your doctor. Additionally, if you have a cough that lasts more than 7 days, comes back, or occurs alongside a fever, rash, or persistent headache, stop using it and reach out to your healthcare provider, as these may indicate a more serious issue.

Overdose

It appears that there is no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. However, it's important to be aware of the general signs of an overdose, which can include symptoms like extreme drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical help.

In case of an emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital. Always keep medications out of reach of children and follow the prescribed dosage to prevent any potential risks. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

If your child is under 2 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before using this product. For children aged 2 years and older, you can apply a thick layer to their chest and throat, or on sore, aching muscles. If you wish, you can cover the area with a warm, dry cloth to help the soothing vapors reach their nose and mouth. Make sure their clothing is loose around the throat and chest to allow for better airflow. You can repeat this application up to three times within a 24-hour period, or follow your doctor's instructions.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. Since older adults may have different health needs and may be taking multiple medications, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual health situation.

If you or a loved one is an older adult, be sure to discuss any concerns about dosage or potential side effects with your doctor, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and current medications.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that your medication dosage may need to be adjusted. This is particularly true if your kidneys are not functioning as well as they should be. Regular monitoring of your kidney function tests is essential to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.

If your creatinine clearance (a measure of how well your kidneys filter waste) is less than 30 mL/min, you should consider taking a lower dose of your medication. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions related to your condition. This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how the medication may affect you differently due to your liver health.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any treatment plan is safe and effective for your specific situation. They can help determine the best approach based on your liver function and overall health.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you.

Always feel free to ask questions and share your complete list of medications and any lab tests you may be undergoing. This way, you can receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at room temperature. This helps maintain its effectiveness and safety. When handling the product, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided to avoid contamination or damage. Always keep the product in a clean environment to ensure it remains safe for use. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, consult the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is Best Choice®?

Best Choice® is a medicated chest rub that acts as a cough suppressant and topical analgesic.

How does Best Choice® work?

It temporarily relieves cough due to the common cold when applied to the chest and throat, and it alleviates minor aches and pains when applied to muscles and joints.

Who can use Best Choice®?

Adults and children aged 2 years and over can use it. For children under 2 years, consult a doctor.

How should I apply Best Choice®?

Rub a thick layer on the chest and throat or on sore, aching muscles. You can cover it with a warm, dry cloth if desired.

Are there any warnings for using Best Choice®?

Yes, it is for external use only and should not come into contact with eyes. Do not use by mouth or on wounds.

What should I do if my symptoms persist?

Stop use and consult a doctor if muscle aches and pains last more than 7 days or if a cough persists for more than 7 days, especially if accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.

Can I use Best Choice® if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use.

How should I store Best Choice®?

Store Best Choice® at room temperature.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Chest Rub (camphor, eucalyptus oil, menthol). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Chest Rub.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Chest Rub, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of cough due to the common cold when applied to the chest and throat. Additionally, it is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains when applied to muscles and joints.

Limitations of Use: There are no known teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

For adults and children aged 2 years and older, a thick layer of the product should be applied to the chest and throat or directly onto sore, aching muscles. If desired, the area may be covered with a warm, dry cloth to enhance the effect. It is recommended to keep clothing loose around the throat and chest to facilitate the release of vapors to the nose and mouth. This application may be repeated up to three times within a 24-hour period, or as directed by a healthcare professional.

For children under 2 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor before use.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Administration by mouth is prohibited. Application with tight bandages is not recommended, as it may lead to adverse effects. The product should not be applied in the nostrils or on wounds or damaged skin due to the risk of irritation and potential complications.

Additionally, the product must not be subjected to heat, microwaving, or added to hot water or any container where heating water occurs. Such actions may cause splattering, resulting in burns and other injuries.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only; direct contact with the eyes must be avoided to prevent irritation or injury.

In the event of accidental ingestion, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center. Prompt action is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if muscle aches and pains persist for more than 7 days or if they recur. Additionally, patients should be instructed to stop use and seek medical advice if a cough lasts longer than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Emergency medical help should be sought without delay in cases of accidental ingestion, reinforcing the importance of immediate intervention in such scenarios.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware that the product is for external use only and should avoid contact with the eyes.

In clinical practice, it is advised that patients discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if muscle aches and pains persist for more than 7 days or if they recur. Additionally, if a cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition, and medical advice should be sought promptly.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with the use of this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Chest Rub (camphor, eucalyptus oil, menthol). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Chest Rub.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 2 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For children aged 2 years and older, the recommended application involves rubbing a thick layer on the chest and throat or on sore, aching muscles. It is advised to cover the area with a warm, dry cloth if desired and to keep clothing loose around the throat and chest to facilitate the inhalation of vapors. This application may be repeated up to three times within a 24-hour period or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any potential adverse effects or changes in efficacy, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data on the excretion of this drug in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with reduced renal function. It is important to monitor renal function tests regularly in patients with known kidney problems. Additionally, a reduced dose should be considered in patients with a creatinine clearance of less than 30 mL/min.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

There is currently no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. In the absence of documented overdosage data, healthcare professionals are advised to exercise caution and monitor patients closely for any unusual symptoms or adverse effects that may arise following administration.

In the event of suspected overdosage, it is recommended that healthcare providers initiate supportive care and symptomatic treatment as necessary. Monitoring of vital signs and laboratory parameters may be warranted to assess the patient's condition and guide further management.

Healthcare professionals should remain vigilant for potential symptoms that could indicate an overdosage scenario, although specific symptoms have not been detailed. If any concerning signs or symptoms develop, appropriate medical intervention should be sought immediately.

For further guidance, healthcare providers are encouraged to consult local poison control centers or relevant medical authorities to obtain the most current recommendations for managing suspected overdosage cases.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of accidental ingestion of the medication. It is important for patients to understand the potential risks associated with unintentional consumption and to act swiftly to ensure their safety.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at room temperature to maintain its integrity and efficacy. No special handling requirements are necessary beyond standard storage practices.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Chest Rub, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Chest Rub, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

Last AI update:

Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.