Gouin S, Patel H. Unusual cause of seizure. Activated charcoal may be administered and breathing support initiated. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. Home remedies for a cough can help you in your desperation to find an effective solution every time your child has this affliction. 2015 Sep 1;8(9):11826-30. eCollection 2015. Nausea, vomiting, rapid pulse, restlessness, and burning in the mouth or throat may also occur. Cases of corneal damage caused by direct contact with this drug have even been recorded. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Can a cat smell camphor? The faster a person gets medical help, the better the chance for recovery. But, if it is a lot, in extreme cases, it could lead to a seizure or acting depressed. With more severe poisoning, seizures may occur. The manufacturer's directions note that VapoRub should not be applied to damaged or irritated skin, the skin around the eyes or within the nostrils. The report earlier this year was not the first time that products like Vicks VapoRub that contain camphor have come under scrutiny. As weve mentioned, the components of this product arent considered safe for use in infants and children. Camphor Poisoning The mechanism by which camphor produces toxicity is unknown. All rights reserved. Camphor. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "In humans, camphor is considered toxic only at high doses. Insecticides that contain Pyrethrins and pyrethyoids can be toxic to cats too. 2 Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative Medicine and Pain Management, University of Miami, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, 1611 NW 12 Ave C300, You should never use this product on a dog or as a deterrent for stopping chewing or biting. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "t- Poisonous plants. While it may be cute that they want to lick our skin after application, these creams are actually toxic to cats. 2019 Oct;63:152984. Its a common component used in lotions, creams, and ointments. This national hotline will let you talk to experts in poisoning. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual overdose. 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": "The smell of Vicks is a strong smell coming from the use of camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus oil. The individual who overdosed, or someone near, should call 911 for emergency assistance (or the local emergency number) They should also call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (or the local poison control center) and follow instructions. Camphor is commonly found in topical pain or arthritis body rubs. It prevents the coat from becoming dry and itchy in winter. View abstract. Bethesda, MD 20894, Web Policies Camphor is LIKELY UNSAFE when inhaled in large amounts. Camphor is a white substance with a strong odor, commonly associated with Vicks VapoRub. Select from the 0 categories from which you would like to receive articles. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics. Camphor revisited: Focus on toxicity. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Considerations. Ragucci, K. R., Trangmar, P. R., Bigby, J. G., and Detar, T. D. Camphor ingestion in a 10-year-old male. Formaldehyde. Any camphor-containing medicine that is on the skin should be removed using soap and lukewarm water. It is dangerous for infants and young toddlers because it contains camphor, which is highly toxic if ingested. Wintergreen oil. 2007;100(2):204-207. Vicks VapoRub may be toxic if applied to certain areas of the body, including inside the nose. Common ones include diphenhydramine, pseudoephedrine, and dimenhydrinate. They will give you further instructions. Other common household products dangerous to cats include laundry detergent, kitchen and bath surface cleaners, carpet cleaners, and toilet bowl cleaners. It is not a medication recommended for dogs due to the toxicity attributed to the core ingredients. Burrow, A., Eccles, R., and Jones, A. S. The effects of camphor, eucalyptus and menthol vapour on nasal resistance to airflow and nasal sensation. Please wait Unable to load your collection due to an error, Unable to load your delegates due to an error. Vicks vaporizer or humidifier is not safe for pets, especially cats and dogs. The first symptoms of camphor toxicity occur quickly (within 5 to 90 minutes), and can include burning of the mouth and throat, nausea, and vomiting. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Its use in children is controversial, as many pediatricians dont recommend it at all. I don't sleep, sleep is for the weak. A stuffy nose and clogged sinuses are no fun. Camphor is a white substance with a strong odor that is commonly associated with topical ointments and gels used for cough suppression and muscle aches. Assessed 5/6/2021. Camphor is a white substance with a strong odor that is commonly associated with topical ointments and gels used for cough suppression and muscle aches. I am Albert. The manufacturer's directions note that VapoRub should not be applied to damaged or irritated skin, the skin around the eyes or within the nostrils. The desired effect is to relieve cough, promote the expectoration of mucus, and improve nasal congestion. Required fields are marked *. Late seizure following ingestion of Vicks VapoRub. 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. View abstract. SMITH, A. G. and MARGOLIS, G. Camphor poisoning; anatomical and pharmacologic study; report of a fatal case; experimental investigation of protective action of barbiturate. In children under age 2, this could result in an increase in mucus and congestion. As mentioned above humidifiers are safe for dogs and cats as long as you use them without any toxic ingredients like essential oils, menthol or camphor. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. 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. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. In: Burns MM, ed. Never prolong your pet's exposure to these substances and keep cats out of any room actively distributing VapoSteam. Clinical signs of camphor poisoning in pets include local skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures (in large amounts), and even rarely, death (from respiratory depression or seizures). As a topical application, camphor oil provides relief for muscle pain, skin itching, and skin inflammation. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. View abstract. American Academy of Pediatrics. Additionally, the company states that Vicks VapoRub should never be heated before use. Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. Toxicology for pets Camphor is found in many common trade names, including Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, and others. The combination of hawthorn extract and camphor significantly increases blood pressure: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Have you ever had a sore spot on an arm or leg and rubbed a patch of Tiger Balm, only to have your pet get affectionate and lick you? t- Pet safe cleaners are out there on the market."}}]}. t- Glycol Ethers. He rubs it on his chest and under his nose, reports 37-year-old Shannon Marks, of Mandeville, La. View abstract. View abstract. Prior to her medical writing career, Price was the managing editor of the Journal of Nutrition Education. t- Over-the-counter aspirin, baby asprin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. Learn more about A.D.A.M. Milk Allergy in Infants: What You Should Know, The 10 Most Common Skin Problems in the First Year of Life, Apathetic Children: When Nothing Interests Them. Peppermint oil. VapoRub is meant to be applied to the skin, where it typically generates a mild warming or cooling sensation. VapoRub's active ingredients include camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol 5. Although [Vicks VaporRub] does not [open you up], it does trigger receptors that make the brain believe that your nose is more open and it is easier to breathe, says Rubin. Severe poisoning due to camphor ingestion can cause: Camphor poisoning may lead to respiratory failure and death 5. Camphor ingestion led to status epilepticus in a 20-month-old girl who required intubation and ventilation. Exogenous lipid pneumonia related to long-term use of Vicks VapoRub by an adult patient: a case report. However, direct application of VapoRub to the airways is not the same as applying the ointment externally. In general, these substances are the same things that would cause problems for people. Master of all. Ruha AM, Graeme KA, Field A. Nausea, vomiting, rapid pulse, restlessness, and burning in the mouth or throat may also occur. 2003 Jun;10(6):691. doi: 10.1111/j.1553-2712.2003.tb00059.x. Agencia espaola de medicamentos y productos sanitarios (2018). Csupor D, Viczián R, Lantos T, et al. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Menthol is common in products like Ben Gay and other creams like Vicks vapor rub. We now know that we must not use Vicks VapoRub on a dog. Xu, H., Blair, N. T., and Clapham, D. E. Camphor activates and strongly desensitizes the transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 channel in a vanilloid-independent mechanism. Note: This list may not be all inclusive. This component is mild to moderately toxic to pets especially cats and dogs. Your email address will not be published. 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. This component is mild to moderately toxic to pets especially cats and dogs. Aronson JK. Examples of some common trade names containing camphor include Carmex, Tiger Balm, Vicks VapoRub, Campho-Phenique, etc. View abstract. Are they safe for dogs? t- Flea and tick topical medications for dogs. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. If your cat ingests Vicks, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. A variety of inhaled substances can have adverse affects on cats. Why Do We Feel Cold When We Have a Fever? Read our doctor-approved guide. Ex vivo skin absorption of terpenes from Vicks VapoRub ointment. Clinical signs of camphor poisoning in pets include local skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures (in large amounts), and even rarely, death (from Vicks VapoRub should never be ingested as the ingredients, especially camphor, can cause life-threatening poisoning 1. Camphor is readily absorbed across the It's time to pause before putting Vicks under or in your nose, however. Glycol Ethers. According to the authors of an article published in the January 2009 issue of "Chest," an 18-month-old child developed difficulty breathing after her caregivers applied VapoRub under her nose for a cold. 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. View abstract. Among the components of the Vicks VapoRub, the following stand out: Due to the substances that it contains, the use of this product isnt recommended in children under 2 years of age. 2016;16:11. doi:10.1186/s12901-016-0032-6. Patients may also undergo gastric lavage, a procedure in which a tube is inserted through the mouth or nose and into the stomach to flush the stomach contents. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. It's used in products such as Vicks VapoRub. Vapor rub, petrolatum, and no treatment for children with nocturnal cough and cold symptoms. The four 'Vs' for foot care. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "What happens if my cat smells Vicks? This is largely due to a misunderstanding of the science involved. Emery, D. P. and Corban, J. G. Camphor toxicity. J Neurosci. Camphor is LIKELY UNSAFE when inhaled in large amounts. Camphor poisoning in pets: the trouble with topical pain or arthritis rubs. The manufacturer's directions warn that Vicks VapoRub should not be used on children younger than age 2 1. Vicks VapoRub overdose. Schmidt, U., Albrecht, M., and Schmidt, S. [Effects of an herbal crataegus-camphor combination on the symptoms of cardiovascular diseases]. 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. Some cats develop skin problems when they come into contact with camphor oil. Ylang Ylang oil. This is particularly important in babies and young children. Will Vicks hurt a dog? Watch out: You just might catch a cold. SLIDESHOW Cold and Flu: Finding Fast Cough Relief See Slideshow The common cold is marked by waves of symptoms as it runs its course. Is VapoRub bad? Isolated cases of an itchy, red rash -- known as contact dermatitis -- and loss of skin color at the site of ointment application have been reported 6. View abstract. Avoid using camphor oil, nutmeg oil, eucalyptus, or menthol in your humidifier. Reviewed by: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Emeritus, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. If only small amounts of camphor are ingested, common side effects will include. Please enable it to take advantage of the complete set of features! OTHER NAME(S): Alcanfor, Arbre Camphre, Camphor Tree, Camphora. The main ingredient in Vicks vaporizers is camphor. 16th ed. Vet experts even warn that the harmful effects of Vicks vaporizer or humidifier can be pronounced in dogs. What Are They Trying to Tell You? Today, camphor is usually made from turpentine oil. t- Onions, Garlic, Chives. When VapoRub was applied directly to the animals' airways, the ointment caused an increase in mucus production, which narrowed the size of the airways. Camphor hepatotoxicity. Inhaling large amounts of camphor can cause toxic effects. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Is it OK for cats to smell Vicks? Although Vicks VapoRub is marketed as a decongestant and antitussive medicine (which relieves cough), in children, it can cause the opposite effect. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Menthol is poisonous because it contains peppermint essential oil, which is toxic to cats if consumed. Covington TR, et al. Laundry detergent, drain cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, and other household cleaners. Camphor is most often used in ointments and other topical products that contain concentrations of 4.7% to 5.3%. Should You Feed a Cold and Starve a Fever? There are many recorded cases of camphor poisoning in children and some have had fatal consequences. The person may receive: How well a person does depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment was received. [Internet] Acceso enero 2022. 1983;96(1-2):157-161. Everyday Health is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Lets take a look in the following article. The ointment can also be applied to muscles and joints to relieve minor aches and pains. Acad Emerg Med. Weve used the vapors in a humidifier and weve bought the plug-ins.. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Insecticides: Insecticides containing organophosphates and carbamates are highly toxic to cats. As long as no vital organs are severely damaged, your pet will be discharged to recuperate at home. t- Formaldehyde. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Just as cleaners like bleach can poison people, they are also a leading cause of pet poisoning, resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems. t- Vinegar and baking soda work wonders on many simple messes around the house. As mentioned above humidifiers are safe for dogs and cats as long as you use them without any toxic ingredients like essential oils, menthol or camphor. Waltham, MA: Elsevier; 2016:44. Note: This list may not be all inclusive. In the event that theyre very congested and you want to help it alleviate these symptoms, you can take into account the following recommendations from specialists: Along with this, it should be noted that the United States Food and Drug Administration (the FDA) doesnt recommend the use of over-the-counter medications for cough relief (antitussives) in children under four years of age. To use the sharing features on this page, please enable JavaScript. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Camphor is easily absorbed through the skin and should never be used on dogs or cats due to the risk of poisoning. Yin S. Over-the-counter cough and cold preparations: Approach to pediatric poisoning. For this reason, one must be very cautious with what we offer them and how we go about it. J Emerg Med 2004;27:49-54.. View abstract. Assessed 5/6/2021. View abstract. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Camphor is a neurotoxic compond which can be easily absorbed in the mucosa, gastrointestinal system, skin and respiratory system because of its property of attracting oil (4, 5). sharing sensitive information, make sure youre on a federal 2009 May;123(5):1269-72. doi:10.1542/peds.2008-2097, Paul IM, Beiler JS, King TS, Clapp ER, Vallati J, Berlin CM. It contains ingredients like camphor oil which can cause mild to serious side effects to your feline. t- Raisins and Grapes. She was treated with intravenous valium and phenobarbitone, and nasogastric activated charcoal. What cleaning chemicals are toxic to cats? Symptoms (such as seizures) will be treated as appropriate. Next, well tell you the reasons. Citrus oil. AEP Asociacin Espaola de Pediatra. A.D.A.M. 1. Whether you use soap and water or hand sanitizer, keeping your hands germ-free can help protect you against influenza. The .gov means its official. Other studies have shown that menthol, one of the ingredients of Vicks VapoRub, may also make it harder to breathe, despite creating a cooling sensation that feels like easier breathing. t- Laundry detergent, drain cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, and other household cleaners. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Considerations. This is a free and confidential service. 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.). Raisins. In: Aronson JK, ed. Phytomedicine. 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. The answer is no. The person may receive: How well a person does depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment was received. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Does the smell of menthol hurt cats? Seek immediate medical help. Martin, D., Valdez, J., Boren, J., and Mayersohn, M. Dermal absorption of camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate in humans. J Rheumatol 2003;30:523-8.. View abstract. In the case of mild camphor poisoning, like vomiting and diarrhea, the vet provides supportive treatment and let the symptoms die down within hours. View abstract. (Phila) 1977;16(10):901-902. Eucalyptus oil. Camphor is also a known carcinogen that is toxic to the kidneys and liver. According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, camphor exposure caused 81 reported cases of moderate or severe toxicity and 1 death in 2014 25. Vicks VapoRub is a medication commonly used to relieve cold symptoms. Other common symptoms include a burning sensation in the mouth and stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Topic 16258 Version 15.0, November 2020. Camphor overdose occurs when someone accidentally or A case report. This helps your vet in making a proper diagnosis. It contains camphor which is toxic if swallowed or absorbed into the body and the manufacturers do in fact warn that VapoRub should not be applied in or near the nostrils and not used on children under 2 years of age. This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual overdose. Cordoba Torres IT, Marino-Nieto J, Barkin HB, Fort AC, Cobas M. Vicks VapoRub intoxication: an unusual presentation of multiorgan failure. ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Just as cleaners like bleach can poison people, they are also a leading cause of pet poisoning, resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems. Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. Vinegar and baking soda work wonders on many simple messes around the house. Always consult with a licensed and credible veterinarian for pet related concerns. At no time do they replace the diagnosis, advice, or treatment from a professional. Also, there are advanced medical drugs that control seizures caused by camphor oil poisoning. So far we have established that camphor is harmful to your cat and dog when ingested or comes into contact with the skin. View abstract. Seek emergency medical treatment for suspected Vicks VapoRub ingestion, especially if muscle twitching, seizures, nausea or vomiting occur 1. All these chemicals and oils are toxic to dogs. When using VapoRub for the first time, try applying it to a small area to see how your skin reacts before using it on a larger area. Kroll, M., Ring, C., Gaus, W., and Hempel, B. Why Do Sugar Gliders Bark? // 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. 11th ed. The side effects of Camphor for cats can vary depending on how much they come into contact with. There has been a lot of debate on whether your cat should inhale vaposteam. In humans, camphor is considered toxic only at high doses. J.Clin.Pharmacol. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Vicks VapoSteam Medicated Liquid, Use in Vicks Vaporizers & Humidifiers, 8 fl oz . Camphor overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medicine. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the Pediatrics 1973;52(5):713-714. This effect is more common in children under 2 years of age or in children with a history of asthma or bronchospasm. So, it is understandable if you find yourself wondering, Is Vicks vaporizer safe for cats and dogs?. VapoRub is meant to be applied to the skin, where it typically generates a mild warming or cooling sensation. Other symptoms include slow breathing, unusual behavior and unconsciousness. This ingredient is safe for human use as it relieves the flu and helps reduce lung congestion. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version. Rampini, S. K., Schneemann, M., Rentsch, K., and Bachli, E. B. Camphor intoxication after cao gio (coin rubbing). Chocolate. Some medications contain camphor oil to help in decongesting the lungs and address various inflammation issues. Poisonous plants. When inhaled: Camphor is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when inhaled as the vapor from rubs applied to the chest. J.Assoc.Physicians India 2008;56:123-124. It's a habit that could prove dangerous. Camphor; Multiorgan failure; Toxicity; Vicks VapoRub. 9-28-2005;25(39):8924-8937. t- Laundry detergent, drain cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, and other household cleaners. "}}, {"@type": "Question", "name": "Will Vicks Vapor Rub hurt my cat? View abstract. As a result, in 1983, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ", "acceptedAnswer": {"@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, Vicks vapor rub could hurt your cat. View abstract. Vasey, R. H. and Karayannopoulos, S. J. Camphorated oil. are some of the toxic substances that can be inhaled. Ramsewak RS, Nair MG, Stommel M, Selanders L. In vitro antagonistic activity of monoterpenes and their mixtures against 'toe nail fungus' pathogens. Camphor is a white substance with a strong odor that is commonly associated with topical ointments and gels used for cough suppression and muscle aches. Typically, your cat would have to consume a significant amount of menthol before exhibiting any menthol poisoning symptoms. Camphor is a white substance with a strong odor, commonly associated with Vicks VapoRub. Waltham, MA: Elsevier; 2016:44. t- Raisins and Grapes. Your vet may suggest a gastric lavage if inducing vomiting will cause more harm to the cat.