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Vapor Rub

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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 2025
Label revision date
December 12, 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 2025
Label revision date
December 12, 2025
Manufacturer
Neilmed Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Registration number
M012
NDC root
13709-336
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

This product is a topical medication designed to provide relief for coughs and sore muscles. You can apply it by spreading a thick layer on the front of your neck and chest to help alleviate coughing, or you can rub it on sore or aching muscles and joints. For added comfort, you may cover the area with a warm, dry cloth, and it's best to keep clothing loose over the throat and chest to allow the vapors to reach your nose and mouth.

You can use this medication up to three times a day, or as directed by your doctor. If you are considering using it for a child under 2 years old, it's important to consult with a doctor first.

Uses

You can use this product to help relieve cough by applying a thick layer on the front of your neck and chest. This method allows the soothing vapors to reach your nose and mouth effectively. If you have sore or aching muscles or joints, rubbing the product on those areas can provide relief as well. For added comfort, you may cover the area with a warm, dry cloth, and it's best to keep your clothing loose over your throat and chest.

You can use this product up to three times a day or as directed by your doctor. If you are considering using it for a child under 2 years old, it's important to consult a doctor first.

Dosage and Administration

When you apply this medication to your throat and chest, it can help temporarily relieve coughing caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial tubes, especially when you're dealing with a cold. Simply rub it onto the affected areas to experience relief.

Additionally, if you have minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints, applying the medication directly to those areas can provide temporary comfort. Just massage it in where you feel discomfort, and it should help ease the pain. Remember, this is a temporary solution, so if your symptoms persist, consider consulting a healthcare professional.

What to Avoid

It's important to follow specific guidelines when using this product to ensure your safety. You should never heat or microwave it, and avoid adding it to hot water or any container with heating water. Additionally, do not take it by mouth or place it in your nostrils, and be careful to keep it away from your eyes. It's also crucial not to apply it to wounds or damaged skin, and avoid tightly bandaging the area where it's applied.

By adhering to these instructions, you can help prevent any potential issues and ensure the product works as intended. Always prioritize your safety and well-being when using any medical product.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this product is for external use only. If your cough lasts more than five days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, it’s important to stop using the product and consult a doctor, as these could indicate a more serious condition. Additionally, if you experience muscle aches and pains that worsen, last longer than five days, or improve only to return shortly after, seek medical advice.

Before using this product, talk to your doctor if you have a cough that produces a lot of phlegm (mucus) or if you have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Warnings and Precautions

This product is for external use only. If you accidentally swallow it, please seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

You should stop using this product and call your doctor if your cough lasts more than 5 days, returns, or occurs with a fever, rash, or headache that lasts. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition. Additionally, if you experience muscle aches and pains that worsen, persist for more than 5 days, or improve only to return within a few days, it's important to consult your doctor.

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 on the front of their neck and chest to help with coughs, or on sore muscles and joints. This can be done up to three times a day or as directed by a healthcare professional.

Always keep this product out of reach of children. If it is swallowed, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Your child's safety is the top priority, so please follow these guidelines carefully.

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 considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken.

Always ensure that your healthcare provider is aware of your age and any existing health conditions, as they can provide personalized advice and monitor for any potential issues. Your safety and well-being are the top priority.

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 you understand any necessary precautions or adjustments based on your kidney 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 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 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 other safety measures, please refer to the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

How should I use this product?

Rub a thick layer on the front of the neck and chest for cough, or on sore or aching muscles or joints. You can use it up to 3 times daily or as directed by a doctor.

Can I cover the application area?

Yes, you can cover the application area with a warm, dry cloth if desired.

What should I do if I have a cough that lasts more than 5 days?

You should stop using the product and ask a doctor, as this could be a sign of a serious condition.

Is this product safe for children?

For children under 2 years, you should ask a doctor before use. For children 2 years and over, it can be used as directed.

What precautions should I take when using this product?

This product is for external use only. Do not apply it to wounds or damaged skin, and avoid getting it in your eyes.

What should I do if I accidentally swallow this product?

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

Can I use this product if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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

What should I do if my muscle aches and pains worsen?

If muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 5 days, you should stop using the product and consult a doctor.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vapor Rub (cough suppressant). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Vapor Rub.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vapor 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.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation. It is to be applied as a thick layer on the front of the neck and chest. For symptomatic relief of sore or aching muscles or joints, this drug may also be rubbed onto the affected areas.

For optimal effectiveness, it is recommended to cover the application site with a warm, dry cloth if desired. Additionally, clothing should be left loose over the throat and chest to facilitate the inhalation of vapors. The drug may be used up to three times daily or as directed by a healthcare professional.

For pediatric patients under the age of 2 years, consultation with a healthcare provider is advised prior to use. There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

When applied to the throat and chest, the product is indicated for the temporary relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation due to a cold. For optimal results, it should be administered as needed, ensuring even coverage over the affected areas.

For application to muscles and joints, the product provides temporary relief from minor aches and pains. It is recommended to apply the formulation directly to the affected areas, massaging gently until fully absorbed. This can be done as needed, based on the severity of discomfort.

Healthcare professionals should instruct patients to follow the recommended application techniques to maximize efficacy and minimize any potential side effects.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Heating the product, including microwaving or adding it to hot water, is prohibited due to the potential for altered efficacy or safety. The product should not be ingested or placed in the nostrils, as this may lead to adverse effects. Contact with the eyes is contraindicated to prevent irritation or injury. Application to wounds or damaged skin is not recommended, as it may exacerbate the condition or hinder healing. Additionally, tight bandaging of the area where the product is applied is contraindicated to avoid compromising circulation or causing skin irritation.

Warnings and Precautions

For external use only. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to strictly adhere to this guideline to prevent potential adverse effects associated with inappropriate use.

In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance is crucial. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center or seek medical help without delay. The national Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients should be closely monitored for specific symptoms that may indicate a serious underlying condition. If a cough persists for more than five days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts, patients must be advised to discontinue use and consult their healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if muscle aches and pains worsen, persist beyond five days, or resolve only to recur shortly thereafter, patients should also stop taking the product and seek medical advice.

Emergency medical help should be sought immediately if the product is swallowed, reiterating the importance of contacting a Poison Control Center or a healthcare professional right away.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware that the product is for external use only.

In clinical practice, it is advised that patients stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if their cough persists for more than 5 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache lasting longer than a few days, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition. Additionally, if muscle aches and pains worsen, persist beyond 5 days, or resolve only to recur within a few days, patients should seek medical advice.

Before using the product, patients are encouraged to consult a healthcare provider if they have a cough associated with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they experience a chronic or persistent cough, such as that which may occur with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

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 necessary at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vapor Rub (cough suppressant). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Vapor 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 product may be applied as a thick layer on the front of the neck and chest to alleviate cough, or on sore or aching muscles and joints. It is recommended to use the product up to three times daily or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Care should be taken to keep the product out of reach of children. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available 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 evaluate the potential risks and benefits associated with its use during pregnancy and lactation. The safety of this medication in pregnant women has not been established, and caution is advised to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

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 in these patients to ensure safety and therapeutic effectiveness.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific overdosage information, it is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant regarding the potential for overdose with this medication. In cases where an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Healthcare providers are advised to monitor patients closely for any signs or symptoms that may indicate an overdose. These may include, but are not limited to, altered mental status, cardiovascular instability, or gastrointestinal disturbances.

Management of an overdose should be guided by the clinical presentation of the patient. Supportive care is paramount, and symptomatic treatment should be initiated as necessary. It is recommended that healthcare professionals consult local poison control centers or relevant toxicology resources for further guidance on the management of overdose cases.

In summary, while specific overdosage data is not available, healthcare professionals should exercise caution and be prepared to implement appropriate interventions in the event of an overdose.

Nonclinical Toxicology

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

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 at 1-800-222-1222 if the product is swallowed.

Patients should be instructed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if their cough lasts more than five days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that persists, as these may indicate a serious condition. Additionally, if muscle aches and pains worsen, persist beyond five days, or resolve only to recur within a few days, patients should also seek medical advice.

When using this product, it is crucial to inform patients of the following precautions: they should not heat or microwave the product, nor should they add it to hot water or any container that holds heated water, as this may cause splattering and result in burns. Patients must be cautioned against taking the product by mouth or placing it in their nostrils, and they should avoid contact with the eyes. Furthermore, the product should not be applied to wounds or damaged skin, and patients should refrain from tightly bandaging the area of application.

Healthcare providers should also recommend that patients consult a doctor before using the product if they have a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they experience a chronic or persistent 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 available for identification. It is essential to store the product at room temperature to maintain its integrity and efficacy. No special handling requirements are noted; however, standard precautions should be observed to ensure optimal storage conditions.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vapor 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 Vapor 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

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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.