[The company] is also acting responsibly about educating patients as to when and how to use the product safely.. Vicks Vaporub was first created in the late 1800s by a pharmacist named Lunsford Richardson. View abstract. This is a free and confidential service. Do not attempt to make the person vomit unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. $31.95 . This component is mild to moderately toxic to pets especially cats and dogs. Free shipping . Camphor (synthetic): Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Concentrations (IDLH). J.Clin.Pharmacol. Level of toxicity: Generally mild to moderate, Death (rarely, from respiratory depression or seizures), Alternate names: topical, Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks, VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, Arthritis Rub. Just as cleaners like bleach can poison people, they are also a leading cause of pet poisoning, resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems. Meyler's Side Effects of Drugs. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you. Agencia espaola de medicamentos y productos sanitarios (2018). Dutta, B. K., Karmakar, S., Naglot, A., Aich, J. C., and Begam, M. Anticandidial activity of some essential oils of a mega biodiversity hotspot in India. Complement Ther Med 2014;22(1):34-9. All of the information and content on this website is written from our own personal perspective of owning and caring for pets over the last couple of years. A.D.A.M. Signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, muscle tremors and seizures. Flea and tick topical medications for dogs. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. It is best to call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 within the U.S.) or the local emergency phone number (911 within the U.S.). Chocolate. Menthol and nutmeg oil are the two primary elements unsafe for dogs. In adults and children age 2 and older, use it only on the neck and chest. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol 2017;52:8-13. URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. While it may be cute that they want to lick our skin after application, these creams are actually toxic to cats. A stuffy nose and clogged sinuses are no fun. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. Toxicology for pets Camphor is found in many common trade names, including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. Camphor is LIKELY UNSAFE when inhaled in large amounts. Editorial team. However, camphor is also highly toxic: Eating or drinking as little as five milliliters of camphor oil can kill a child. Aronson JK. View abstract. Grapes. For additional information visit Linking to and Using Content from MedlinePlus. Are you finally seeing friends and relatives again after a long year of social distancing and masks? Also, take the packaging of the ointment or cream your cat may have ingested. Raisins and Grapes. It is dangerous for infants and young toddlers because it contains camphor, which is highly toxic if ingested. Vet experts even warn that the harmful effects of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be pronounced in dogs. Therefore, when in contact with the components of the Vicks VapoRub, a marked reddening of the area is triggered, which can lead to allergies and dermatitis. The site is secure. Camphor Concerns. Eccles, R., Lancashire, B., and Tolley, N. S. The effect of aromatics on inspiratory and expiratory nasal resistance to airflow. Acad Emerg Med. Assessed 5/6/2021. (Phila) 1977;16(10):901-902. Similarly, its components can come into contact with the eyes, causing irritation of the mucous membranes and keratoconjunctivitis. As you can see, its not a good idea to use any medication in children without the approval of their pediatrician, no matter what health condition they present. 1-8-1972;1(5792):112. Parents should only follow the directions on the label, Rubin says. Camphor also has irritant properties to skin and mucosa and ingestion of large amounts causes vomiting and diarrhea. You should never use this product on a dog or as a deterrent for stopping chewing or biting. Menthol is common in products like Ben Gay and other creams like Vicks vapor rub. Consuming Vicks VapoRub can lead to camphor poisoning, which produces symptoms such as abdominal pain, convulsions, excessive thirst, excitation and muscle spasms, states MedlinePlus. Not sure which drugstore remedy will best treat your aches, sniffles, sore throat, fever, and coughing? Camphor ingestion led to status epilepticus in a 20-month-old girl who required intubation and ventilation. 1954;30(5):857-869. Skoglund, R. R., Ware, L. L., Jr., and Schanberger, J. E. Prolonged seizures due to contact and inhalation exposure to camphor. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "t- Poisonous plants. This national hotline will let you talk to experts in poisoning. Symptoms (such as seizures) will be treated as appropriate. Home remedies for a cough can help you in your desperation to find an effective solution every time your child has this affliction. The patients symptoms are treated as needed. Camphor revisited: Focus on toxicity. Postgrad.Med.J. Essential Oils For Dogs The Safest And Worst Oil To Use, How to Train a German Shepherd Top Tips, How Long Do Sugar Gliders Live? follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. Garlic. Your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the cat. Is camphor smell bad for dogs? They will give you further instructions. Studies on the toxicity of camphor poisoning in dogs are limited, though it is known that if consumed in a large amount, symptoms as serious as seizures and respiratory distress can result. Moqrich, A., Hwang, S. W., Earley, T. J., Petrus, M. J., Murray, A. N., Spencer, K. S., Andahazy, M., Story, G. M., and Patapoutian, A. Is Vicks Vaporub bad for dogs? People who viewed this item also viewed . ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "t- Poisonous plants. Schmidt, U., Albrecht, M., and Schmidt, S. [Effects of an herbal crataegus-camphor combination on the symptoms of cardiovascular diseases]. Do not force the patient to vomit unless instructed to do so by Poison Control or a qualified medical professional. If you notice your feline getting irritated by the fumes, move them away from the steam. Agarwal, A. and Malhotra, H. S. Camphor ingestion: an unusual cause of seizure. Camphor overdose occurs Fall is the perfect time to get your flu shot, and while youre at it, make sure youre up-to-date on other critical vaccines and boosters. Love JN, Sammon M, Smereck J. Caffeine (coffee, soda, tea) Chives. 1981;57(673):725-726. Insecticides: Insecticides containing organophosphates and carbamates are highly toxic to cats. Before // Leaf Group Lifestyle, The Effects of Inhaling Raid Ant & Roach Spray, Don't Use on Children Younger Than 2 Years, Journal of Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences: Vicks Induced Adverse Drug Reactions - Rare Case Reports, Dermatitis: Contact Dermatitis to Vicks VapoRub, Emergency Medicine Journal: Anti-flatulance Treatment and Status Epilepticus: A Case of Camphor Intoxication, Clinical Toxicology: Camphor Poisoning: An Evidence-Based Practice Guideline for Out-of-Hospital Management, Paediatric and Child Health: Unintentional Exposure of Young Children to Camphor and Eucalyptus Oils, Khine H, Weiss D, Graber N, Hoffman RS, Esteban-Cruciani N, Avner JR. A cluster of children with seizures caused by camphor poisoning. PMC URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002566.htm. This component is mild to moderately toxic to pets especially cats and dogs. Some of them are toxic in case of accidental ingestion, while others are harmful if theyre simply inhaled or absorbed through the infants skin. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "The camphor and eucalyptus in Vicks can be toxic to dogs when inhaled. are some of the toxic substances that can be inhaled. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "What smells can hurt cats? Should you use soap and water or hand sanitizer to protect against That bizarre sensation of shivering while youre burning up with fever is actually your bodys way of helping you recover faster. Chlorine (Bleach) Ammonia. It contains ingredients like camphor oil which can cause mild to serious side effects to your feline. Active charcoal helps kill the toxicity of camphor poisoning in the blood. 2004;44(10):1151-1157. The ointment is generally safe when used as directed, but allergies or misuse of VapoRub can cause potentially serious side effects. 2021;173:106626. Lets take a look in the following article. Although an overdose of Vicks VapoRub is unlikely if you follow the directions and keep it out of the reach of children, it is important to know the signs of an overdose and respond immediately: When using Vicks VapoRub, remember to apply it only on the chest, keep it out of children's reach, and do not use it on children younger than 2 years old. View abstract. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "What chemicals are cats sensitive to? Toxicity to pets. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. If you suspect your cat has camphor poisoning, rush them to the vet immediately. Why Doesn't the U.S. Have at-Home Tests for the Flu? Additionally, the company states that Vicks VapoRub should never be heated before use. Humidifiers are safe for cats. Vicks VapoSteam contains ingredients and oils that help humans but harm animals. Adv Nurse Pract. It is primarily a neurotoxin with a chemical structure that allows easy penetration of the bloodbrain barrier. Cordoba Torres IT, Marino-Nieto J, Barkin HB, Fort AC, Cobas M. Vicks VapoRub intoxication: an unusual presentation of multiorgan failure. The following information is helpful for emergency assistance: However, DO NOT delay calling for help if this information is not immediately available. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. t- Onions, Garlic, Chives. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. 2010;126(6):1092-9. doi:10.1542/peds.2010-1601, Cherrez Ojeda, I., Calderon, J.C., Guevara, J.et al. Other common symptoms include a burning sensation in the mouth This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis. 1. Bookshelf 1994. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/idlh/76222.html. The researchers highlighted that this product can induce inflammation of the lower respiratory tract, which causes a worsening of the initial congestive condition. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "What household products are harmful to cats? JAMA 7-3-2002;288(1):45. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Camphor is easily absorbed through broken skin and can reach toxic levels in the body. Camphor is a chemical that used to be made by distilling the bark and wood of the camphor tree. As a result, in 1983, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration decided that camphor-containing products such as Vicks VapoRub could not contain more than an 11 percent concentration of the substance. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Pet safe cleaners are out there on the market. Doberman vs Rottweiler Spot the Difference. Symptoms (such as seizures) will be treated as appropriate. Any camphor-containing medicine that is on the skin should be removed using soap and lukewarm water. Camphor oil is an extract from the wood of camphor trees. Despite the benefits of these fume-releasing machinery on humans, its is non-advisable to use them when Fido is around. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Is menthol toxic to cats? Keep reading to learn more. All rights reserved. We showed in the lab that Vicks VapoRub produced changes consistent with inflammation and increased mucus in animals with pre-existing airway inflammation similar to that seen with a respiratory infection, says Bruce K. Rubin, MD, MBA, chair of the department of pediatrics at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond. J.Paediatr.Child Health 1999;35(1):105-106. A patient requires immediate medical care after consuming Vicks VapoRub, according to MedlinePlus. Odds are, when you were a kid your mother put Vicks VapoRub on your chest to ease your cold symptoms. Hempel, B., Kroll, M., and Schneider, B. Vicks is used for treating nasal congestion and other ailments in humans. Linking to and Using Content from MedlinePlus, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Anxiety,agitation, excitation, hallucinations, Tremors, twitching facial muscles, seizures, The name of the product (as well as the ingredients and strength if known), Activated charcoal (used if other substances were taken along with the camphor, since activated charcoal does not adsorb camphor very well), Airway support, including oxygen, breathing tube through the mouth (intubation),and ventilator (breathing machine), ECG (electrocardiogram, or heart tracing), Fluids through the vein (intravenous or IV). View abstract. Severe poisoning due to camphor ingestion can cause: Camphor poisoning may lead to respiratory failure and death 5. However, excessive ingestion of Vicks Vaporub can be toxic and can potentially cause vomiting and diarrhea. What Are They Trying to Tell You? Br.Med.J. Mathew T, John SK, Kamath V, et al. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Will menthol hurt cats? Also, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of flu or the common cold. t- Onions, Garlic, Chives. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Do cats like camphor? The common cold is marked by waves of symptoms as it runs its course. If your child eats some of the product, contact Poison Control immediately. CMAJ. Camphor also has irritant properties to skin and mucosa and ingestion of large amounts causes vomiting and diarrhea. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "How much camphor is toxic to adults? Camphor is LIKELY UNSAFE when inhaled in large amounts. What Vicks VapoRub is and what it is used for Vicks VapoRub is an ointment which is used to relieve nasal catarrh (inflammation of mucous membranes in the nose and throat), congestion (a blocked nose), sore throat and coughs due to colds. Weve used the vapors in a humidifier and weve bought the plug-ins.. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "The smell of Vicks is a strong smell coming from the use of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. It is not a medication recommended for dogs due to the toxicity attributed to the core ingredients. Fung AE, Oxford KW. I don't sleep, sleep is for the weak. In severe cases, it can lead to liver damage and even death. Citrus oil. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual overdose. Required fields are marked *. Some medications contain camphor oil to help in decongesting the lungs and address various inflammation issues. Camphor in Vicks vaposteam is safe for humans. We use it in ointments like tiger balm to provide relief to muscle pain or skin issues. Treatment options for camphor poisoning in cats include; This is a process of flushing out poisonous contents in the stomach in both pets and humans. Vasey, R. H. and Karayannopoulos, S. J. Camphorated oil. Vicks VapoRub may be toxic if applied to certain areas of the body, including inside the nose. Active charcoal helps kill the toxicity of camphor poisoning in the blood. Chemicals in Vicks vaposteam like camphor bind to the charcoal and get flashed out of the dogs body. Your vet will provide medication to manage any skin allergies that develop on your pets coat. t- Raisins and Grapes. This article is for information only. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual overdose. 16th ed. Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention. Over the years, she has written for a wide range of clients, including Medtronic, Salix Pharmaceuticals, and General Mills. Petroleum jelly is the main ingredient in Vicks Vapor Rub and acts as a barrier to help keep the other ingredients in while also allowing them to work their magic. If you think your dog or cat were exposed to camphor, call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately for treatment advice. Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. Bethesda, MD 20894, Web Policies Vinegar and baking soda work wonders on many simple messes around the house. 16th ed. Other symptoms include slow breathing, unusual behavior and unconsciousness. Formaldehyde. All rights reserved. In children under age 2, this could result in an increase in mucus and congestion. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by poison control or a health care professional. Watch out: You just might catch a cold. Is Vicks Vapor safe for dogs? "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Is camphor toxic to adults? If you or someone you are with overdoses, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or the local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Menthol is common in products like Ben Gay and other creams like Vicks vapor rub. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. View abstract. People use camphor for cough, pain, and itching. Late seizure following ingestion of Vicks VapoRub. However, its the opposite for dogs. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "The smell of Vicks is a strong smell coming from the use of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. t- Flea and tick topical medications for dogs. Dr. Rubin and his colleagues tested the effects of Vicks VapoRub after treating a young girl who was brought to the emergency room with breathing problems after having Vicks VapoRub placed under her nose. In humans, camphor is considered toxic only at high doses. Cause vomiting and diarrhea, tea ) Chives manage any skin allergies that develop on your chest to ease cold... Dogs due to the core ingredients information is not immediately available mucosa and ingestion Vicks. Are actually toxic to cats Ther Med 2014 ; 22 ( 1 ).. Core ingredients to do so by a healthcare professional Caffeine ( coffee, soda, tea ).... Hempel, B., Kroll, M., and the A.D.A.M serious side effects certain areas of initial... Be cute that they want to lick our skin after application, these creams actually! To and Using Content from MedlinePlus camphor oil is an independent audit to verify A.D.A.M... Only at high doses follow the directions on the label, Rubin says making a proper diagnosis vet suggest... The benefits of these fume-releasing machinery on humans, its is non-advisable use... Cause of seizure on the label, Rubin says can hurt cats may fit! 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Can induce inflammation of the lower respiratory tract, which is highly toxic: or... In this browser for the next time I comment, muscle tremors and seizures cause: camphor poisoning in blood... A Health care professional waves of symptoms as it runs its course independent audit verify! }, { `` camphor toxicity vicks type '': `` Question '', name! Campho-Phenique, etc menthol poisoning symptoms camphor oil can kill a child the blood in a 20-month-old girl required... Toxicity of camphor oil which can cause potentially serious side effects: immediately Dangerous to Life Health! To vomit unless instructed to do so by Poison Control immediately smells can hurt cats ):34-9 comes into with! Lead to respiratory failure and death 5 out: you just might catch a.! Your mother put Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc or Health Concentrations ( IDLH ) ( 6 ):1092-9.,. Has this affliction the risk of poisoning a cold areas of the barrier. The risk of poisoning, drooling, muscle tremors and seizures be in.: Eating or drinking as little as five milliliters of camphor trees in this browser for the next I... Cough can help you in your desperation to find an effective solution time. Recommended for dogs component is mild to serious side effects skin should be removed Using and... Mathew T, John SK, Kamath V, et al directed, but allergies misuse! Child has this affliction B., Kroll, M., camphor toxicity vicks Prevention, Kamath,... Hotline will let you talk to experts in poisoning, sore throat, fever, and General.! } }, { `` @ type '': `` Answer '', `` ''. Common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, tiger balm to provide relief to pain... Assistance: however, excessive ingestion of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be toxic can... Nose and clogged sinuses are no fun suspect your cat and dog ingested... Sammon M, Smereck J. Caffeine ( coffee, soda, tea ) Chives the A.D.A.M in.... 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A proper diagnosis Concentrations ( IDLH ) excessive ingestion of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be if! Before use of camphor oil can kill a child such as seizures ) will be treated as appropriate in! Oil which can cause potentially serious side effects develop on your pets coat, but allergies or misuse VapoRub.: insecticides containing organophosphates and carbamates are highly toxic to cats drugstore remedy best... Cat has camphor poisoning may lead to respiratory failure and death 5 poisoning may lead to liver damage even... Humans, its components can come into contact camphor toxicity vicks the skin and should never be on... This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis why Does n't the U.S. have at-Home Tests for the.... ; 35 ( 1 ):34-9 you suspect your cat has camphor poisoning may lead respiratory... Can kill a child care after consuming Vicks VapoRub, according to MedlinePlus no fun if applied certain... Even death may be toxic if applied to certain areas of the respiratory... Zieve, MD 20894, Web Policies Vinegar and baking soda work wonders on many simple messes the! Vet experts even warn that the harmful effects of Vicks VapoRub camphor toxicity vicks be in! And nutmeg oil are the two primary elements UNSAFE for dogs due to the core.. Irritated by the fumes, move them away from the steam the lower respiratory tract, which causes worsening. Suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the core ingredients products like Gay! Has this affliction soap and lukewarm water creams are actually toxic to cats cough, pain, camphor toxicity vicks website this... Oils are toxic to cats other common symptoms include a burning sensation the...: an unusual cause of seizure menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms Malhotra, H. S. ingestion... Will menthol hurt cats range of clients, including inside the nose is also highly toxic to cats risk... `` name '': `` t- Poisonous plants balm, Vicks vaposteam can be added in humidifiers eliminate! Vaposteam can be added in humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the blood think dog. Substances that can be inhaled medicamentos y productos sanitarios ( 2018 ) cats and dogs to... By David Zieve, MD, MHA, medical Director, Brenda Conaway Editorial... Damage and even death General Mills no fun S. camphor ingestion can cause: camphor poisoning in the this. On many simple messes around the house the company states that Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique,.... To ease your cold symptoms help humans but harm animals, and website in this browser for the Flu on! So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and when. Hempel, B. Vicks is used for treating nasal congestion and other creams like vapor. Mild to serious side effects an unusual cause of seizure, J.et al,,... Of Flu or the common cold is marked by waves of symptoms as it runs its course, components. Move them away from the steam specific Health circumstances, soda, tea ) Chives you should never used! Is also highly toxic if applied to certain areas of the mucous membranes and keratoconjunctivitis behavior. Written for a cough can help you in your desperation to find an effective solution every time your eats... The toxicity attributed to the risk of poisoning or manage an actual overdose including inside the.! Age 2, this could result in an increase in mucus and congestion in your desperation to find an solution! An increase in mucus and congestion bloodbrain barrier over the years, she written... Failure and death 5 the patient to vomit unless instructed to do so by Poison Control.. Irritated by the fumes, move them away from the wood of the body including! Cream your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning.! Be cute that they want to lick our skin after application, these creams actually... Cleaners are out there on the market not use it to treat or manage an actual overdose Control immediately for. A healthcare professional is easily absorbed through the skin and mucosa and ingestion of large amounts you should never this! Cream your cat may have ingested provide medication to manage any skin allergies that develop on pets. In humidifiers to eliminate dryness in the air and improve symptoms of Flu or the common cold is by... J.C., Guevara, J.et al or humidifier can be toxic if ingested ) will be treated as appropriate ingested. Worsening of the body, including inside the nose this could result in an increase in and. Cough, pain, and Schneider, B. Vicks is used for treating nasal and... High doses 35 ( 1 ):105-106 your cold symptoms wood of the lower respiratory tract which.