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Vicks Vaporub

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Active ingredients
  • Eucalyptus Oil 0.012 g/1 g
  • Camphor (synthetic) 0.048 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 1993
Label revision date
October 1, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredients
  • Eucalyptus Oil 0.012 g/1 g
  • Camphor (synthetic) 0.048 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 1993
Label revision date
October 1, 2025
Manufacturer
Procter & Gamble Manufactura S de RL de CV
Registration number
M012
NDC root
58933-544
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info (7 NDCs)
Packaging & NDC Codes (7)

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 both a cough suppressant and a topical analgesic. When you apply it to your chest and throat, it can temporarily relieve cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, often associated with the common cold. Additionally, if you use it on your muscles and joints, it can help alleviate minor aches and pains in those areas.

This product comes in a 6-ounce (170 g) jar and is designed to provide soothing relief for common cold symptoms and muscle discomfort.

Uses

You can use this product to help relieve discomfort in a couple of ways. When applied to your chest and throat, it can temporarily ease coughing caused by minor irritation in these areas, which often happens with the common cold.

Additionally, if you have minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints, applying it to those areas can provide temporary relief. This makes it a useful option for soothing discomfort from everyday activities or minor injuries.

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. If you like, you can cover the area with a warm, dry cloth to help the vapors reach your nose and mouth more effectively. Make sure to keep your clothing loose around the throat and chest area. You can use this treatment up to three times a day, or as your doctor advises.

For 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 potential issues. You should never take it by mouth or apply it in your nostrils. Additionally, avoid using it on wounds or damaged skin, and do not cover the area with tight bandages.

When using this product, remember not to heat it, microwave it, or mix it with hot water, as this can cause splattering and lead to burns. Following these guidelines will help ensure your safety while using the product.

Side Effects

You should use this product only on the skin and avoid getting it in your eyes. If you experience muscle aches and pains that worsen or last longer than 7 days, or if they improve and then return within a few days, it's important to stop using the product and consult a 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.

Before using this product, talk to your doctor if you have a cough with excessive mucus or if you have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Warnings and Precautions

You should only use this product on the skin and avoid getting it in your eyes. It is important not to swallow it, use it in your nostrils, or apply it to wounds or damaged skin. Additionally, do not cover the area with tight bandages after application.

If you experience muscle aches and pains that worsen or last longer than 7 days, or if they go away and then come back within a few days, stop using the product and contact your doctor. Similarly, if you have a cough that lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, you should stop using it and seek medical advice, as these could be signs of a more serious condition.

Overdose

It appears that there is no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. However, it's always important to be aware of the potential signs of an overdose, which can include symptoms like extreme drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help. You can do this by calling your local emergency number or going to the nearest hospital. Always keep medications out of reach of children and follow the prescribed dosage to minimize the risk of an overdose. 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 you are considering using this product for your child, it's important to know that it should not be used in children under 2 years old. For children aged 2 years and older, you can use it for cough suppression by applying a thick layer on 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.

Additionally, 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 follow the recommended guidelines to ensure your child's safety and comfort.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues). This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how your treatment may need to change based on your kidney function.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment is safe and effective for your specific condition. They can help determine the best approach for managing your health, especially if you have concerns about your kidneys.

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).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding your liver health and how it may relate to your treatment. They can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective care.

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 means keeping it in a place that is neither too hot nor too cold, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

When handling the product, make sure to do so with clean hands or gloves to maintain its safety and effectiveness. Always follow any specific instructions provided with the product for optimal use. If you have any questions about disposal or other safety measures, refer to the guidelines included with your product.

Additional Information

You can use this medication 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 to enhance the effect. 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 to ensure their safety.

FAQ

What is VICKS VapoRub used for?

VICKS VapoRub is a cough suppressant and topical analgesic that temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with the common cold, as well as minor aches and pains of muscles and joints.

How should I use VICKS VapoRub 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 your doctor.

Can children use VICKS VapoRub?

VICKS VapoRub is not recommended for children under 2 years of age. For children 2 years and older, follow the usage instructions for cough suppression or muscle/joint pain.

What precautions should I take when using VICKS VapoRub?

Do not use VICKS VapoRub by mouth, in nostrils, on wounds or damaged skin, or with tight bandages. Avoid contact with eyes and do not heat or microwave the product.

When should I stop using VICKS VapoRub and consult a doctor?

Stop using VICKS VapoRub if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if your cough persists for more than 1 week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.

Is it safe to 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.

How should I store VICKS VapoRub?

Store VICKS VapoRub at room temperature.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Vaporub (camphor (synthetic) , eucalyptus oil, and 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.

Limitations of Use: This drug is intended for symptomatic relief and does not address the underlying causes of cough or musculoskeletal pain.

Dosage and Administration

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

For 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 repeated 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.

  • The product should not be applied to wounds or damaged skin.

  • Use with tight bandages is contraindicated.

  • Heating the product during use is not allowed.

  • Microwaving the product is prohibited.

  • The product must not be added to hot water or any container where heating water may occur, as this can cause splattering and result in burns.

Warnings and Precautions

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

General precautions should be observed to ensure safe use of the product. It is contraindicated for oral ingestion and should not be applied within the nostrils. The product must not be used on wounds or damaged skin, as this may exacerbate irritation or lead to infection. Additionally, the application of the product should not occur under tight bandages, as this may hinder proper absorption and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist beyond 7 days, or if symptoms resolve and then recur within a few days. Furthermore, patients should be instructed to stop use and seek medical advice if a cough persists for more than 1 week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of certain adverse reactions and warnings associated with its use. This product is intended for external use only, and contact with the eyes should be avoided to prevent irritation.

In clinical practice, patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if these symptoms 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 is important to seek medical advice, as a persistent cough may indicate a serious underlying condition.

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

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, and 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. 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 can be applied to the affected area no more than 3 to 4 times daily.

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. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and maternal health. 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 regarding the excretion of this medication 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 available prescribing information. There are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or safety considerations outlined for individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when prescribing to this patient population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in clinical trials for this medication. Consequently, there is no available information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions 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 warranted based on clinical judgment.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific overdosage information, it is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant and prepared for potential scenarios involving overdose.

Healthcare providers should be aware that the clinical presentation of an overdose may vary significantly depending on the substance involved and the individual patient’s characteristics. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to, altered mental status, cardiovascular instability, respiratory distress, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

In the event of suspected overdosage, immediate medical evaluation is recommended. Healthcare professionals should assess the patient's vital signs and conduct a thorough clinical examination. Supportive care should be initiated as necessary, and specific interventions may be required based on the symptoms presented.

It is advisable to contact a poison control center or consult relevant clinical guidelines for management protocols tailored to the specific substance involved in the overdose. Continuous monitoring and supportive measures are critical in managing the patient’s condition effectively.

Documentation of the incident, including the substance involved, estimated dose, time of exposure, and any symptoms observed, is crucial for ongoing management and treatment decisions.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No non-teratogenic effects have been provided in the available data. Additionally, there is no information regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology in the insert.

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. Patients should be instructed not to use the product by mouth, in nostrils, on wounds, or on damaged skin. It is important to inform patients that the product should not be used with tight bandages.

Patients should be counseled to stop using the product and consult a doctor if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms clear up and then recur within a few days. Additionally, they should be advised to seek medical attention 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 must be cautioned against heating it, microwaving it, or adding it to hot water or any container with heating water, as this may cause splattering and result in burns.

Patients should also be encouraged to ask a doctor before use if they have a cough that occurs with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

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 that the product remains within the recommended storage conditions.

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 throat and chest 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. Additionally, it is important to keep the product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

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.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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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.