Q: Is Vicks VapoRub harmful?
A: Yes. It can be if used long term or if applied directly to the mucus membranes.
Vicks VapoRub
Active ingredients are camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. The following information applies to both Vicks VapoRub and Vick’s VapoInhaler. It can cause airway irritation leading to inflammation and increased mucus production. It is not intended for prolonged use and the packaging indicates to not use it for more than 7 days. The manufacturer and several other sources note that it may lead to rebound congestion if used longer. Thus, long term use may actually increase nasal congestion and continued use may lead to persistent congestion. It can actually perpetuate the problem rather than cure it.
None of the ingredients actually reduce congestion but menthol may give the sensation/feeling of coolness that some people perceive as an improvement in congestion. Studies do not find that Vicks actually reduces nasal congestion or improves respiratory status in any physically measurable way. Patients do often endourse the sensation of feeling of improved breathing, regardless. Studies indicated that it is a feeling and not an actual reduction in congestion. With prolonged use, the opposite actually can happen and Vicks Vaporub can actually CAUSE continued congestion, not relieve it.
The manufacture warns that Vicks VapoRub should not be applied in or near the nostrils.
Poison control and several studies warn against using Vicks directly in the nose. It can be absorbed through the mucus membranes and both camphor and menthol can have toxicity. There was a 2016 case study where an 85 year old woman had been using the medication in her nose for 50 years and developed a rare form of pneumonia (lipoid pneumonia) due to this practice. The ointment base in the Vicks contains petroleum jelly and is flammable.
Children that have ingested camphor can have seizures and die.
References:
Vicks VapoInhaler (inhalant) Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company (drugs.com)
