Vicks VapoRub Can Cause Harm If Improperly Used

Improper use may cause respiratory distress, researchers say; company says product is safe

Findings published in the January 2009 edition of the medical journal Chest argued that putting VapoRub close to or inside your nose may cause airway inflammation. Vicks VapoRub is widely used and known throughout for various respiratory problems.

The medical study reports that the product may stimulate mucus production and airway inflammation, which can have severe effects on the breathing of infants and young children because of the small size of their airways.