What is Vicks Vaporub? Uses, warnings & side effects

What is Vicks Vaporub? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025 • Published Dec 30, 2020

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Vicks Vaporub overview

BRAND NAMES:

Vicks VapoRub, Sunmark Medicated Chest Rub, CareALL Medicated Chest Rub, Chest Rub, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Chest Rub, Good Sense Medicated Chest Rub, Leader Medicated Chest Rub, Medicated Chest Rub, Mentholatum Chest Rub For Kids, Vicks VapoRub

Generic Names:

Vicks Vaporub

Uses:

Relieves cough, stuffy nose, and mild body aches.

Therapeutic Classes:

Analgesic Combination, Anesthetic Combination

Forms:

Cream, Lotion, Ointment

How it’s taken:

On the skin

What is Vicks Vaporub used for?

What form(s) does Vicks Vaporub come in?

Cream
Lotion
Ointment

What are common Vicks Vaporub dosages?

Jar 50GM of 4.7-1.2-2.6%
Jar 50GM of 4.73-1.2-2.6%
Jar 170GM of 4.73-1.2-2.6%
Bottle 100GM of 4.73-1.2-2.6%

How to take Vicks Vaporub

Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Apply a thick layer on your chest and throat, or rub on sore, aching muscles.
Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
Topical application routeWash your hands with soap and water before and after you use this medicine.
Topical application routeUse this medicine only on your skin. Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Topical application routeDo not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.
Apply a thick layer on your chest and throat, or rub on sore, aching muscles.
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

What to do if you miss a dose of Vicks Vaporub

Topical application routeApply a dose as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and apply a regular dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Topical application routeAsk your pharmacist or doctor how to dispose of the medicine container and any leftover or expired medicine.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Vicks Vaporub contraindications - Who shouldn't take Vicks Vaporub?

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to eucalyptus oil, menthol, or camphor.

Vicks Vaporub warnings

Do not give this medicine to a child under 2 years of age.
Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have lung disease such as asthma, emphysema, chronic cough, or cough due to smoking.
Make sure you do not use this medicine near heat, a microwave, oven, or open flame. Do not add this medicine to hot water or any container where heating water, as it may cause burns.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Vicks Vaporub interactions & what to avoid when taking Vicks Vaporub

Make sure you do not use this medicine near heat, a microwave, oven, or open flame. Do not add this medicine to hot water or any container where heating water, as it may cause burns.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have lung disease such as asthma, emphysema, chronic cough, or cough due to smoking.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child under 2 years of age.
Topical application routeDo not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Vicks Vaporub side effects - How does Vicks Vaporub make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing