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Medicated Chest Rub

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Active ingredients
  • Menthol, Unspecified Form 26 mg/1 g
  • Eucalyptus Oil 12 mg/1 g
  • Camphor (synthetic) 48 mg/1 g
Other brand names
Dosage form
Ointment
Route
Topical
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2019
Label revision date
December 12, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredients
  • Menthol, Unspecified Form 26 mg/1 g
  • Eucalyptus Oil 12 mg/1 g
  • Camphor (synthetic) 48 mg/1 g
Other brand names
Dosage form
Ointment
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 2019
Label revision date
December 12, 2025
Manufacturer
Cardinal Health, 110 dba LEADER
Registration number
M012
NDC root
70000-0480
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info
Packaging & NDC Codes

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

Medicated Chest Rub is a topical treatment designed to provide temporary relief for two common issues. When applied to your chest and throat, it helps alleviate cough caused by minor irritation in the throat and bronchial area, often associated with the common cold. Additionally, if you apply it to your muscles and joints, it can help ease minor aches and pains in those areas.

This product works by soothing irritation and discomfort, making it a helpful option when you're feeling under the weather or experiencing muscle soreness.

Uses

You can use this product to help relieve a cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial area, especially when you're dealing with a common cold. Simply apply it to your chest and throat for temporary relief.

Additionally, if you're experiencing minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints, applying this product can provide you with temporary comfort. It's designed to help ease those discomforts, allowing you to feel better throughout your day.

Dosage and Administration

If you or your child is 2 years old or older and you need relief from a cough, you can apply a thick layer of the medication to the throat and chest. For better results, you might want to cover the area with a warm, dry cloth. Make sure to keep clothing loose around the throat and chest to allow the soothing vapors to reach the nose and mouth. You can use this treatment up to three times a day, or follow your doctor's instructions.

If you're dealing with minor aches and pains in your muscles or joints, simply apply the medication to the affected area. You can do this up to 3 to 4 times a day. However, please remember that this medication is not suitable for children under 2 years old, so avoid using it for them.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this product safely to avoid any harmful effects. You should not use it by mouth, in your nostrils, or on wounds and damaged skin. Additionally, avoid applying it with tight bandages, as this can lead to complications.

When using this product, please remember to not heat it, microwave it, or add it to hot water or any container that is used for heating water. Doing so may cause splattering, which can result in burns. Always follow these guidelines to ensure your safety and well-being.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this product is for external use only and should not come into contact with your eyes. Avoid using it by mouth, in your nostrils, on wounds or damaged skin, or with tight bandages. If you experience muscle aches and pains that worsen, last more than seven days, or come back after clearing up, it's important to stop using the product and consult a doctor. Additionally, if you have a cough that lasts more than a week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, seek medical advice, as this could indicate a serious condition.

If you have a cough with excessive mucus or a chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, consult your doctor before using this product. In case of accidental swallowing, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only, so please avoid contact with your eyes, and do not use it by mouth or in your nostrils. It's important not to apply it to wounds or damaged skin, and avoid using it with tight bandages. When using this product, do not heat it, microwave it, or mix it with hot water, as this can cause splattering and burns.

If your muscle aches and pains worsen, last more than 7 days, or come back after clearing up, stop using the product and consult your doctor. Additionally, if you have a cough that lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, seek medical advice, as this could indicate a more serious issue. If you accidentally swallow the product, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose

If you or someone else has swallowed too much of this medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Signs of an overdose may include unusual symptoms, so be alert for any changes in behavior or health. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

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, you should not use this product. For children aged 2 years and older, it can be used to help suppress coughs. You can apply a thick layer to their throat and chest, and if you like, cover it with a warm, dry cloth. Make sure their clothing around the throat and chest is loose to allow the vapors to reach their nose and mouth. You can use this treatment up to three times a day, or as directed by your doctor.

If your child is experiencing minor aches and pains in their muscles or joints, you can apply the product to the affected area. Just be sure not to use it more than 3 to 4 times a day. Always follow the guidance of a healthcare professional when using any medication for your child.

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 elderly patients may have different health needs and responses to medications, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help determine the best approach for you or your loved one, considering any existing health conditions or medications.

If you are caring for an older adult, be attentive to any changes in their health or behavior after starting a new medication, and report these to their doctor. Regular check-ins with healthcare professionals can ensure that the treatment remains safe and effective.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help monitor your kidney function and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Before starting any new medication, including this one, you should discuss your liver health with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and ensure your safety.

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 tests you might be undergoing. This way, you can avoid any potential issues and ensure the best possible care.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, store it at room temperature in a cool, dry place. It's important to keep the container tightly closed to prevent contamination and maintain its integrity. Additionally, protect the product from excessive heat, as high temperatures can compromise its quality.

When handling the product, avoid heating it in any way—this includes microwaving or adding it to hot water. Heating can cause splattering, which may lead to burns. By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure safe and proper use of the product.

Additional Information

You can use this product topically for different purposes. For cough suppression, apply a thick layer on your throat and chest, and you may cover it with a warm, dry cloth. Make sure your clothing is loose around your throat and chest to allow the vapors to reach your nose and mouth. You can use it up to three times a day or as directed by your doctor. If you're using it for minor aches and pains in your muscles or joints, apply it to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Always keep it out of reach of children, and if swallowed, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

FAQ

What is Medicated Chest Rub used for?

Medicated Chest Rub is used to temporarily relieve cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with the common cold, as well as to relieve minor aches and pains of muscles and joints.

How should I apply Medicated Chest Rub for cough suppression?

For cough suppression, rub a thick layer on your throat and chest, cover with a warm, dry cloth if desired, and keep clothing loose to help vapors reach your nose and mouth. You can use it up to three times daily or as directed by a doctor.

Can children use Medicated Chest Rub?

Medicated Chest Rub should not be used by children under 2 years of age. For those 2 years and older, follow the application instructions carefully.

What should I do if I accidentally swallow Medicated Chest Rub?

If swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 immediately.

Are there any warnings associated with Medicated Chest Rub?

Yes, it is for external use only and should not come into contact with eyes, be used by mouth, in nostrils, on wounds or damaged skin, or with tight bandages.

What should I do if my cough or muscle pain persists?

If your cough persists for more than 1 week or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache, or if muscle aches and pains worsen or last more than 7 days, stop use and consult a doctor.

Is it safe to use Medicated Chest Rub during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using Medicated Chest Rub.

How should I store Medicated Chest Rub?

Store Medicated Chest Rub at room temperature, keep the container tightly closed, and protect it from excessive heat.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Medicated Chest Rub.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Medicated 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 drug.

Uses and Indications

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

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

For adults and children aged 2 years and older, the following administration guidelines apply:

Cough Suppression: A thick layer of the product should be applied to the throat and chest. If desired, the area may be covered with a warm, dry cloth. 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 performed up to three times daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Muscle and Joint Minor Aches and Pains: The product should be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

Contraindication: The product is not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Administration by mouth, application in nostrils, or use on wounds or damaged skin is prohibited due to the potential for adverse effects. Additionally, the application of tight bandages is not recommended, as it may interfere with the product's efficacy and safety.

When utilizing this product, it is essential to avoid heating, microwaving, or adding it to hot water or any container that may be heated. Such actions can lead to splattering, which poses a risk of burns.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only, this product must be applied with caution to prevent contact with the eyes. It is contraindicated for oral ingestion and should not be applied within the nostrils. Additionally, the product should not be used on wounds or damaged skin, nor should it be used in conjunction with tight bandages.

When utilizing this product, it is imperative to avoid heating, microwaving, or adding it to hot water or any container that may involve heating water. Such actions may lead to splattering, which can result in burns.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and seek medical advice if muscle aches and pains worsen, persist for more than 7 days, or resolve only to recur within a few days. Furthermore, if a cough persists for more than one week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, patients should be instructed to consult a physician, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) should be contacted without delay.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several important warnings and potential adverse reactions. This product is intended for external use only and should not come into contact with the eyes. It is contraindicated for oral ingestion, application in the nostrils, use on wounds or damaged skin, or in conjunction with tight bandages.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if muscle aches and pains worsen, persist for more than 7 days, or resolve only to recur within a few days. Additionally, if a cough persists for more than 1 week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, medical advice should be sought, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Before using this product, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a cough that occurs with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they experience a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

In the event of accidental ingestion, patients should seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there are no known 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 Medicated Chest Rub (camphor, eucalyptus oil, menthol). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Medicated Chest Rub.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 2 years of age should not use this product. For children aged 2 years and older, it is indicated for cough suppression. The recommended application involves rubbing a thick layer on the throat and chest, with the option to cover the area with a warm, dry cloth to enhance vapor delivery to the nose and mouth. This can be administered up to three times daily, or as directed by a healthcare professional.

For the relief of minor aches and pains in muscles and joints, the product may be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended in this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and lactation. Healthcare providers can offer guidance tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring the safety of both the patient and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

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

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the drug insert text regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients, although specific recommendations are not provided.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this medication. Consequently, there are no 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 prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, immediate medical assistance is crucial. If the substance is ingested, healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to seek medical help without delay. It is recommended to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for expert guidance on managing the situation.

Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Healthcare providers should be prepared to assess the patient's condition and implement appropriate management strategies based on the severity of symptoms and the specific substance involved.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified. Additionally, there are no detailed findings available regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified the following adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs: skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues. These events have been documented in the context of routine pharmacovigilance activities.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of swallowing the product, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients should be instructed not to use the product by mouth, in the nostrils, on wounds, or on damaged skin. Additionally, it should not be used with tight bandages, as this may lead to adverse effects.

Healthcare providers should inform patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if muscle aches and pains worsen, persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms resolve and then recur within a few days. Similarly, patients should be advised to stop use and seek medical advice if a cough persists for more than 1 week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

When using this product, patients should be cautioned against heating, microwaving, or adding it to hot water or any container that may heat water, as this could cause splattering and result in burns.

Finally, healthcare providers should recommend that patients consult a doctor before use if they have a cough that occurs with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a container that must be kept tightly closed to maintain its integrity. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat. Special care should be taken to avoid heating the product; it must not be heated, microwaved, or added to hot water or any container that may involve heating water, as this could lead to splattering and potential burns.

Additional Clinical Information

The product is administered topically, with specific instructions for use depending on the indication. For cough suppression, a thick layer should be applied to the throat and chest, optionally covered with a warm, dry cloth, while ensuring clothing remains loose to facilitate vapor inhalation. This application can be repeated up to three times daily or as directed by a healthcare provider. For relief of minor aches and pains in muscles or joints, the product should be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

Clinicians should counsel patients to consult a healthcare professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding before using the product. It is also crucial to keep the product out of reach of children; in the event of ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought or contact with a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) is advised.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Medicated 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 Medicated 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.

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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.