Drugs A - Z

Papillomavirus Quadrivalent Vaccine (Human) (Recombinant) (Yeast) Suspension for injection

A viral vaccine - It is used to prevent infections of four types of the human papillomavirus

Generic Name: human papillomavirus vaccine  |  Brand Name: Gardasil

Brand Names: Gardasil, Cervarix

What is this medicine?

HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS VACCINE (HYOO muhn pap uh LOH muh vahy ruhs vak SEEN) is a vaccine. It is used to prevent infections of four types of the human papillomavirus. This will lower your risk of getting cervical cancer, genital warts, and abnormal lesions in the genital area. You cannot get these diseases from the vaccine. This medicine does not treat cervical cancer or genital warts.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

How should I use this medicine?

This vaccine is for injection in a muscle on your upper arm or thigh. It is given by a health care professional. You will be observed for 15 minutes after each dose. Sometimes, fainting happens after the vaccine is given. You may be asked to sit or lie down during the 15 minutes. Three doses are given. The second dose is given 2 months after the first dose. The last dose is given 4 months after the second dose.

A patient information sheet and/or a Vaccine Information Statement will be given before each vaccination. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 9 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

All 3 doses of the vaccine should be given within 6 months. Remember to keep appointments for follow-up doses. Your health care provider will tell you when to return for the next vaccine. Ask your health care professional for advice if you are unable to keep an appointment or miss a scheduled dose.

What may interact with this medicine?

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

This vaccine may not fully protect everyone. This vaccine does not prevent all types of cervical cancer. Continue to have regular pelvic exams and cervical cancer screenings as directed by your doctor.

The Human Papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease. It can be passed by any kind of sexual activity that involves genital contact. The vaccine works best when given before you have any contact with the virus. Many people who have the virus do not have any signs or symptoms.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if you have any reaction or unusual symptom after getting the vaccine.


Last Updated: July 31, 2009
Licensed from
The Healthline Site, its content, such as text, graphics, images, search results, HealthMaps, Trust Marks, and other material contained on the Healthline Site ("Content"), its services, and any information or material posted on the Healthline Site by third parties are provided for informational purposes only. None of the foregoing is a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Healthline Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Please read the Terms of Service for more information regarding use of the Healthline Site.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement