Can Vicks Kill You?

When you’re sick, you want to get some relief from your cough, and vicks vapor rub is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. Often used as an antihistamine, it can also help ease your nose and throat, which is why it’s so popular for use during cold and flu season.

Can Vicks kill you?

Vicks is a common over-the-counter (OTC) medicine that’s been around since 1894. It was once a salve made in Greensboro, North Carolina, and it contains menthol, which helps reduce congestion by making you breathe more easily. It also contains eucalyptus oil, which can relieve respiratory symptoms.

Putting Vicks on your feet to soothe your cough doesn’t seem like a bad idea, but it can be dangerous. Research shows that frequent Vicks use can cause long-term health problems, including lung cancer and bronchitis.

If you put a little vicks on the soles of your feet, it can also stimulate nerves that connect to the medulla oblongata, the part of the brain that regulates your coughing. But this theory isn’t proven, so there’s no way to know for sure if it can actually help your cough.

It can be harmful to children under 2 years of age if they swallow it or inhale it through their noses. Ingestion of the camphor in Vicks can make it dangerous for them, resulting in seizures and death, says Dr. Steven Rubin, an emergency doctor who’s the author of “Children’s Respiratory Health.”

The National Institutes of Health advises that adults and children under 2 years of age should not swallow Vaporub, and experts warn it can be a life-threatening situation for infants and young children. If you suspect a child has ingested Vicks, seek immediate medical attention and shift the child to an open environment as soon as possible.

Can you be addicted to vicks?

Although there’s no evidence that you can become addicted to vicks, it’s important to remember that all medications should be used as directed. Misuse of any OTC medication can lead to side effects, including addiction, which can be dangerous for your health.

What is a healthy dosage for vicks?

Using too much Vicks can actually be harmful, but it’s safe to use a small amount if you follow the directions. If you do decide to take a larger amount, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your symptoms, so that you can avoid any serious health complications in the future.

Can vicks vapor rub make you fall asleep?

Many people believe that rubbing a little Vicks vapor rub on your chest can relieve congestion by releasing menthol vapors that feel cooling. Your brain interprets these vapors as helping you breathe, so it can help ease the symptoms of a cold.

But, it’s worth pointing out that this effect may only last for a short period of time and then you’ll feel like you’re breathing better again. It may also lead to rebound congestion, which makes the condition worse.