Why Vicks VapoRub can not be used in children under 2 years of age
If I asked you about the medicines that in these precise instants you have in the home first aid kit, it is quite likely that the one known as Vicks VapoRub be one of them. It is, without a doubt, the typical product that any family has in the pantry or medicine cabinet where they store and store medicines and drugs. And its popularity is due above all to that famous television ad in which parents applied it to the chest of their children who had a cold, help relieve nasal congestion.
However, according to a scientific study that was published some years ago in the magazine Chest, Vicks VapoRub is not recommended for use in children under two years of age. Why? Very easy: because there is a risk that it causes more respiratory problems, instead of relieving them.
In fact, as noted in the study itself, this medication may even be able to increase mucus production, which cause a narrowing of the respiratory tract in children under 2 years. A contraindication that is specified on the label of the product in question.
In our country this medicine is indicated for adults and children over three years. In addition, the warning of use regarding children under 2 years should not cause alarm, since as many doctors and health specialists say, Vicks VapoRub has been on the market for a long time to be identified as a safe, well-known medicine. proven
Uses that are recommended by Vicks Vaporub
The use of Vicks Vaporub is really simple: it is only necessary to put a little bit of this balm on your fingers and apply it by rubbing it on the chest, on the neck or on the back of the person. The balm works by relieving congestion and mucus since we inhale the vapors that it gives off when coming into contact with the heat of the body, which vaporizes the menthol.
Thus, Its use is appropriate in children over 3 years of age and in adults, when you are cold or aggravated and you need to relieve nasal congestion and excess mucus.
Yes, should not be swallowed or introduced into the nose, its use is not advised in case of persistent or chronic cough, or when the cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm.
Image | Tatsuo Yamashita This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Pediatrician. We advise you to consult your trusted pediatrician.
