safety of topical camphor and menthol products (Vicks VapoRub, etc) in kids

March 2009

Recent news reports have people asking about the safety of topical camphor and menthol products (Vicks VapoRub, etc) in kids.

Many parents are turning to these as an alternative to oral meds...in light of recent warnings with cough and cold products.

But this isn't a good idea.

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Table of Contents

greater scrutiny of propoxyphene (Darvocet, Darvon, etc)
Cardiology The metoprolol shortage will cause more questions on how to switch
Cardiology Is chlorthalidone better than hydrochlorothiazide
Bisphosphonates osteonecrosis of the jaw in patients taking bisphosphonates for osteoporosis
Gastroenterology new proton pump inhibitor called Kapidex
Diabetes New Am Diabetes Assoc guidelines emphasize a more "personal" approach to setting goals for glycemic control
Poison Prevention safety of topical camphor and menthol products (Vicks VapoRub, etc) in kids
Pediatrics whether oral corticosteroids are beneficial for wheezing in PRESCHOOLERS
Vaccines Parents continue to have fears about pediatric vaccines
Respiratory & Allergy new nasal spray for allergic rhinitis called Astepro
Fibromyalgia ads promoting Savella (milnacipran) as the first drug approved ONLY for fibromyalgia
new warnings about misusing topical anesthetics