• Brand Name: Vicks
• Industry: Consumer Healthcare
• Founded: 1894
• Founder: Lunsford Richardson
• Headquarters (brand origin): Greensboro
• Current Owner: Procter & Gamble
• Product Category: Over-the-counter medicines and wellness products
• Markets: Available in more than 100 countries worldwide

The origins of Vicks date to 1894, when pharmacist Lunsford Richardson formulated a range of remedies to assist members of his local community. Among these was Croup & Pneumonia Salve, which Richardson developed after seeking a soothing treatment for his son’s severe cough.

This product was later renamed Vicks VapoRub, following a suggestion from Richardson’s son, Smith Richardson. VapoRub quickly became the company’s flagship product and remains one of the most recognisable topical cold remedies in the world.2

Origin of the Name

The name “Vicks” was inspired by Dr. Joshua Vick, Richardson’s brother-in-law, whose surname Richardson was permitted to use for his medicinal preparations. Richardson also favoured the name because it was short, memorable, and had previously appeared in advertisements for Vick’s Seeds.

Over the decades, Vicks became part of several corporate organisations before joining Procter & Gamble (P&G), one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies. Today, Vicks products are manufactured and marketed under P&G’s health care division in many countries.

Vicks has expanded significantly beyond its original ointment. Its current product portfolio includes:

Vicks VapoRub

The brand’s signature mentholated ointment, used externally for the temporary relief of cough symptoms and minor muscle aches.

Vicks NyQuil

A nighttime multi-symptom cold and flu medicine introduced in 1966, designed to relieve coughing, congestion, fever, aches, and other symptoms that interfere with sleep.3

Vicks DayQuil

A daytime cold and flu medicine formulated to relieve symptoms without causing drowsiness.

Vicks Sinex

A range of nasal sprays and decongestant products intended for the temporary relief of nasal congestion.

Vicks Inhaler

A portable nasal inhaler containing menthol and other aromatic ingredients to provide a sensation of easier breathing.

Vicks Cough Drops

Medicated throat lozenges first introduced in the early 1930s.

Vicks Thermometers

Digital thermometers designed for home temperature monitoring.

BabyRub

A non-medicated aromatic ointment formulated for infants, to be used according to age recommendations and local labelling.4

ZzzQuil

A nighttime sleep aid marketed by Vicks for occasional sleeplessness, distinct from its cold and flu medicines.

Vicks has consistently positioned itself around themes of family care, trust, symptom relief, innovation in home healthcare, and helping families recover from common illnesses. Its long-running messaging emphasises caring for loved ones during colds and flu, making the brand closely associated with comfort and traditional home remedies.

Vicks products are sold throughout North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Australia. The brand enjoys strong recognition in many markets, including the United States, India, Mexico, Brazil, Pakistan, and parts of Southeast Asia.

Few healthcare brands have achieved the cultural recognition of Vicks. In many countries, Vicks VapoRub has become synonymous with home treatment for colds and congestion.

In Latin American communities, the product is often affectionately referred to as “Vivaporú”, while in various Asian markets it is commonly viewed as a household staple passed down through generations. Although various traditional or anecdotal uses are sometimes attributed to VapoRub, consumers should follow the product’s labelled directions rather than relying on unverified practices.3

Vicks has produced memorable advertising campaigns centred on family relationships, parents caring for sick children, emotional storytelling, trust built over generations, and relief from cough and cold symptoms. Many of its television commercials have become well known internationally for their focus on compassion and caregiving.

For more than a century, Vicks has remained a prominent consumer healthcare brand. Through continual product innovation and strong brand recognition, it has become closely associated with relief from coughs, colds, and nasal congestion. Its flagship product, Vicks VapoRub, remains one of the best-known topical cold remedies globally and continues to serve as a symbol of home care for millions of families.

1. Our Story – A Century of Powerful Relief and Caring | Vicks
2. Heritage of Care and Trust | Vicks
3. An Ode to Vicks VapoRub: The Cure-All Minty Balm Turned Hispanic Staple
4. FDA Verification Portal