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Vicks Childrens 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 2019
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 2019
Label revision date
October 1, 2025
Manufacturer
Procter & Gamble Manufactura S de RL de CV
Registration number
M012
NDC root
58933-595
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 children's VapoRub™ is a topical ointment designed for children aged 2 years and older. It serves two main purposes: as a cough suppressant and a topical analgesic. When you apply it to your child's chest and throat, it can temporarily relieve cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with the common cold. Additionally, when used on muscles and joints, it helps to alleviate minor aches and pains.

This product is formulated to provide soothing relief, making it a helpful option for managing cold symptoms and minor discomfort. Always ensure to follow the usage guidelines appropriate for your child's age.

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 added comfort, you may cover the area with a warm, dry cloth. To ensure the soothing vapors can easily reach the nose and mouth, keep clothing loose around the throat and chest. You can use this treatment up to three times a day, or as your doctor advises.

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 it's important to 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, on wounds or damaged skin, or with tight bandages. These methods can lead to serious complications.

Additionally, when using this product, please do not heat it, microwave it, or add it to hot water or any container that is heating water. Doing so may cause splattering, which can result in burns. Always follow these guidelines to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of 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

This product is for external use only, so be sure to avoid contact with your eyes.

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 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, it's important to stop using the product and seek medical advice, as these symptoms could indicate a more serious condition.

Overdose

If you or someone else has swallowed too much of a medication, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can do this by contacting a Poison Control Center or going to the nearest emergency room. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, it’s always better to be safe and get checked by a medical professional.

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.

Additionally, 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 your healthcare provider for the best results.

Geriatric Use

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

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

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that 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 kidney function might affect the use of this medication.

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

Hepatic Impairment

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

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

Drug Interactions

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

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

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance and safety of your product, it is important to store it at room temperature. This helps maintain its effectiveness and integrity. When handling the product, always do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to avoid contamination.

If you have any components that come with the product, make sure to follow any specific instructions provided for their use and storage. Proper disposal of any used materials is also essential for safety, so be sure to follow local guidelines for disposal.

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, consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Always keep it out of reach of children, and if swallowed, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

FAQ

What is VICKS children's VapoRub™ used for?

VICKS children's 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.

Who can use VICKS children's VapoRub™?

It is intended for children aged 2 years and older. Do not use it on children under 2 years.

How should I apply VICKS children's VapoRub™ for cough suppression?

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

How often can I use VICKS children's VapoRub™ for muscle or joint pain?

You can apply it to the affected area not more than 3 to 4 times daily.

Are there any warnings for using VICKS children's VapoRub™?

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

What should I do if my symptoms persist?

Stop use and ask a doctor if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if a cough persists for more than 1 week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.

Can I use VICKS children's VapoRub™ 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 I accidentally swallow VICKS children's VapoRub™?

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Vicks Childrens Vaporub.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vicks Childrens 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 specified 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:

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 to enhance the effect. It is recommended to keep clothing loose around the throat and chest to facilitate the release of vapors to the nose and mouth. This application may be repeated up to three times 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, 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.

Heating, microwaving, or adding the product to hot water or any container with heated water is contraindicated. Such actions may lead to splattering, posing a risk of burns.

Warnings and Precautions

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

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to discontinue use and consult a physician if any of the following conditions arise:

  • Muscle aches and pains that worsen or persist beyond 7 days, or if symptoms resolve and then recur within a few days.

  • A cough that persists for more than 1 week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. It is important to recognize that a persistent cough may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

No additional general precautions or laboratory tests are recommended for the safe use of this product.

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 stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if muscle aches and pains worsen or persist for more than 7 days, or if symptoms clear up 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, it is important to seek medical advice, as a persistent cough 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, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Drug Interactions

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

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Vicks Childrens 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.

Geriatric Use

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

Pregnancy

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

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data 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 mothers.

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

Overdosage

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 or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdosage. Symptoms may vary depending on the specific substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms accordingly.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual patient's needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are recommended to ensure patient safety and effective resolution of any complications arising from the overdosage.

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 in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has revealed reports of the following adverse reactions: skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory distress. These events were reported voluntarily or identified through surveillance programs.

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 use 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 one 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 where water is heated, 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 available for identification. It is essential to store the product at room temperature to maintain its integrity and efficacy. No special handling requirements are necessary beyond standard storage practices.

Additional Clinical Information

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 clothing 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 use. It is important to keep the product out of reach of children, and in the event of accidental ingestion, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vicks Childrens 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 Childrens 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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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.