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Vicks Vaporub

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Active ingredients
  • Eucalyptus Oil 0.012 g/1 g
  • Camphor (synthetic) 0.047 g/1 g
  • Menthol 0.026 g/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 2018
Label revision date
October 1, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredients
  • Eucalyptus Oil 0.012 g/1 g
  • Camphor (synthetic) 0.047 g/1 g
  • Menthol 0.026 g/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 2018
Label revision date
October 1, 2025
Manufacturer
Procter & Gamble Manufactura S de RL de CV
Registration number
M012
NDC root
58933-003
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

VICKS VapoRub™ is a topical ointment that serves as a cough suppressant and a pain reliever. It is designed to be applied to the chest and throat to temporarily relieve cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, often associated with the common cold. Additionally, when used on muscles and joints, it can help alleviate minor aches and pains.

This soothing ointment has a pleasant lavender scent and contains lavender essential oil, enhancing your comfort while providing relief. Whether you're dealing with a cough or muscle discomfort, VICKS VapoRub™ offers a simple way to help you feel better.

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 so that the soothing vapors can easily 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 no more than 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 and effectively. You should never take it by mouth or apply it in your nostrils. Additionally, avoid using it on any wounds or damaged skin, and do not cover the area with tight bandages after application. Following these guidelines will help ensure your safety and the best possible results.

Side Effects

When using this product, it's important to be aware of some potential side effects and warnings. You should only use it externally and avoid contact with your eyes. Do not use it by mouth, in your nostrils, on wounds or damaged skin, or with tight bandages. If you have a cough with excessive mucus or a chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, consult your doctor before use.

If you experience worsening muscle aches or pains that last more than seven days, or if your cough persists for over a week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, stop using the product and seek medical advice. Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Always keep it out of reach of children, and if swallowed, seek medical help immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only, so please avoid contact with your eyes. Do not use it by mouth, in your nostrils, on wounds or damaged skin, or with tight bandages. If you have a cough that produces a lot of mucus or a chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, consult your doctor before using this product.

While using this product, do not heat, microwave, or add it to hot water, as this can cause splattering and burns. If you experience worsening muscle aches or pains that last more than 7 days, or if your cough persists for more than a week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, stop using the product and contact your doctor.

Keep this product out of reach of children. If swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Overdose

It's very important to keep this medication out of reach of children. If a child accidentally swallows it, you should seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center.

In case of an overdose, you may notice signs such as unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you or someone else experiences these symptoms, it's crucial to get emergency assistance right away. Always prioritize safety and act quickly if an overdose is suspected.

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 you have a child under 2 years old, it's important to avoid using this product. For children aged 2 years and older, you can use it for cough relief by applying a thick layer to their throat and chest. You may cover the area with a warm, dry cloth and ensure their clothing is loose around the throat and chest to help the vapors reach their nose and mouth. This can be done 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, but limit this to no more than 3 to 4 times a day. Always keep the product out of reach of children, and if it is swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

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 potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.

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 should be used 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 determine the best course of action based on your kidney function and overall health.

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 should be used if you have hepatic impairment (issues with liver function).

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 share your complete list of medications and any recent lab tests to avoid any potential issues. Your health and safety should always come first.

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

You can use this product topically to help with cough suppression and minor aches and pains. For cough relief, apply a thick layer to your throat and chest, and you may cover it with a warm, dry cloth. Make sure to keep your clothing loose around these areas 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. For muscle or joint discomfort, apply it to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Always keep it out of reach of children, and if it is swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

FAQ

What is VICKS VapoRub™ used for?

VICKS VapoRub™ is used as a cough suppressant and topical analgesic to 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 VICKS VapoRub™?

For cough suppression, rub a thick layer on your throat and chest, and you may cover it with a warm, dry cloth. For muscle or joint pain, apply to the affected area up to 3 to 4 times daily.

Is VICKS VapoRub™ safe for children?

VICKS VapoRub™ should not be used on children under 2 years of age. For children 2 years and older, follow the application instructions carefully.

Are there any warnings associated with VICKS VapoRub™?

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

What should I do if I experience side effects?

If muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if your cough persists for more than 1 week, you should stop using the product and consult a doctor.

Can I use VICKS VapoRub™ if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using VICKS VapoRub™.

What should I do if VICKS VapoRub™ is swallowed?

If swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Vicks Vaporub.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vicks Vaporub, 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 recommended application for cough suppression involves rubbing a thick layer of the product onto the throat and chest. If desired, the area may be covered with a warm, dry cloth to enhance the effect. It is advised to keep clothing loose around the throat and chest to facilitate the inhalation of vapors. This application may be performed 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 should be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

The product is contraindicated for use in children under 2 years of age.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Administration by mouth is prohibited.

  • Application in the nostrils is not permitted.

  • Use on wounds or damaged skin is contraindicated due to the potential for irritation or adverse effects.

  • Application under tight bandages is not recommended, as it may lead to increased absorption and potential systemic effects.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only; contact with eyes should be avoided. This product is contraindicated for oral ingestion, application in the nostrils, use on wounds or damaged skin, and should not be used in conjunction with tight bandages.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor prior to use if they have a cough associated with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they experience a persistent or chronic cough, particularly in cases related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

During the application of this product, it is imperative to avoid heating, microwaving, or adding it to hot water or any container that may contain heated water, as this may lead to splattering and potential burns.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist beyond 7 days, or if they resolve and then recur within a few days. Additionally, if a cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, medical evaluation is warranted, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

It is essential to keep this product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact with a Poison Control Center is recommended.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several important warnings and precautions. 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.

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

While using this product, patients should avoid heating, microwaving, or adding it to hot water or any container that may heat water, as this may cause splattering and result in burns.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if they resolve and then 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, it may indicate a serious condition that requires medical evaluation.

For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional prior to use. Furthermore, this product should be kept out of reach of children, and in the event of accidental ingestion, medical assistance should be sought immediately or contact with a Poison Control Center should be made.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with 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 Vicks Vaporub (camphor (synthetic) , eucalyptus oil, menthol). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Vicks Vaporub.
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. It is essential to keep this product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought or contact with a Poison Control Center is advised.

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 adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, 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

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 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 prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdosage, it is imperative to keep the product out of reach of children. Should ingestion occur, immediate medical assistance is required. Healthcare professionals are advised to contact a Poison Control Center without delay to ensure appropriate management and intervention.

Prompt action is crucial in mitigating potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. The symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage any clinical manifestations that arise.

In summary, vigilance in preventing access to the product by children and swift response to any incidents of ingestion are essential components of effective overdosage management.

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 in these areas limits the understanding of the compound's potential effects in nonclinical settings.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are provided in the insert.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. It is important to emphasize that if the medication is swallowed, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. This guidance is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, particularly in households with children.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers assigned for identification. It is essential to store the product at room temperature to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper handling should be observed to ensure optimal conditions are met throughout the storage period.

Additional Clinical Information

The product is administered topically, with specific instructions for use depending on the indication. For cough suppression, patients should apply a thick layer to the throat and chest, optionally covering it with a warm, dry cloth, and ensuring that clothing around the area is 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 important to keep the product out of reach of children, and in the event of ingestion, medical assistance or contact with a Poison Control Center should be sought immediately.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vicks Vaporub, 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 Vicks Vaporub, 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.