Thursday, 19 February 2015

Is Vicks Vaporub Safe

Vicks Vaporub, a topical cream or ointment, is the number one selling cold product for ages two and up according to its manufacturers. There are, however, several warnings and things to consider when using Vick's Vaporub.


Effects


Vick's Vaporub is used on the chest and throat; to relieve coughs due to the cold and on muscles: to relieve minor pain, according to it's manufacturers.


Considerations


According to its manufacturers, Vick's Vaporub, is for external use only. Do not use on broken skin, the mouth or in conjunction with tight bandages. It should not be used on children under two.


Safety


An article published in the Los Angeles Times on January 13, 2009 by Thomas H. Maugh II, outlined several situations where Vick's Vaporub has proved to be dangerous to kids under two, including a case where an 18 month old was brought to the emergency room for respiratory complaints after the product was applied.


Effects


In the article, Vick's Vaporub was found to increase mucous secretion by up to 59 percent in cultured cells and up to 14 percent in animals tested.


Significance


Vick's Vaporub has been used by thousands of people for many years without any problems, caution is advised only when using it on young children.

Tags: Vick Vaporub, according manufacturers, Vicks Vaporub, when using