Vaporizer Medicine: Dangerous to Swallow

How do vaporizers work?

People with conditions like colds, flu, allergies, or dry skin can be made more comfortable by adding moisture to the air in their homes. There are 2 main ways to do this. Cool-mist humidifiers use ultrasonic vibrations or a rapidly spinning disc to create tiny droplets of water that are then propelled into the air. Steam vaporizers (warm-mist humidifiers) heat water and send the steam into the air. 

What liquids can you safely vaporize when you’re sick?

The most important liquid in any vaporizer is water. There are products specifically designed to be added to the water in steam vaporizers. These products are intended to increase the comfort provided by the steam. There are many different kinds and brands of these medicated solutions (one well-known brand is Vicks VapoSteam). The most common active ingredient in these products is camphor dissolved in ethanol, which is intended to relieve coughing. 

Are vaporizers safe for babies and small children?

Small children with cold or flu symptoms are too young to take cough and cold medicines. Hot steam vaporizers are sometimes suggested for children at least 2 years of age with stuffy noses or congestion. Steam vaporizers present a risk of burns if a child gets too close to the vaporizer or spills the hot water, so always place the vaporizer in a safe and stable location.

Is vaporizer liquid poisonous?

Once the small amount of vaporizer medication has been added to the water in a vaporizer, toxicity is unlikely. However, the undiluted product is potentially poisonous, and camphor is its most dangerous ingredient. Camphor is absorbed into the body quickly after it is swallowed. Initial symptoms can include mouth and throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The greatest danger presented by camphor is seizures, which might be the first symptom experienced. The ethanol in a vaporizer medication can cause drowsiness, loss of balance, and other symptoms of drunkenness. 

My child ingested vaporizer liquid. What should I do?

If someone swallows a vaporizer medication, use the webPOISONCONTROL online tool for guidance or call Poison Control right away at 1-800-222-1222. The webPOISONCONTROL tool or the poison specialist will tell you exactly what to do. Often, watching the person closely at home will be enough. Sometimes, a trip to the emergency room will be needed. If so, Poison Control will call the emergency room to provide treatment advice.

Serkalem Mekonnen, RN, BSN, MPH
Certified Specialist in Poison Information

Revised William G. Troutman, PharmD
Professor of Pharmacy Emeritus

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