Return Home
HealthSearch

Health Guide

Camphor/eucalyptus oil/menthol (On the skin)

Camphor (KAM-for), Eucalyptus Oil (yoo-ka-LIP-tus oyl), Menthol (MEN-thol)

Relieves cough, stuffy nose, and mild body aches.

Brand Name(s):

CareALL Medicated Chest Rub, Chest Rub, Delsym No Mess Vapor Roll-On, Foster&Thrive Chest Rub, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Chest Rub, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Medicated Chest Rub, Good Sense Medicated Chest Rub, Leader Medicated Chest Rub, Medicated Chest Rub, Mentholatum Chest Rub For Kids, Quality Choice Medicated Chest Rub, Sunmark Medicated Chest Rub, Vicks VapoRub

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

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

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Lotion, Ointment

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Use 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.
  • Wash 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.
  • Do not cover the treated area with a bandage unless directed by your doctor.

If a dose is missed:

  • Apply 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.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask 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.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have lung disease such as asthma, emphysema, chronic cough, or cough due to smoking.
  • Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
  • Do not give this medicine to a child under 2 years of age.
  • 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.
  • Do not use this medicine to treat a skin problem your doctor has not examined.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these 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

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.

All rights reserved