gardasil

Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources

Blank

Uses:

This medication is a vaccine used to prevent cancer of the cervix, vagina, and the area around the outside of the vagina (vulva). It is also used to prevent genital warts and abnormal tissue growth in the cervix/vagina/vulva that can lead to cancer in women. These conditions are commonly caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccines work by increasing the body's natural defense (immunity) against the virus. This medication does not protect against all types of HPV, only the types in the vaccine. It is used to prevent the diseases and will not treat active cervical/vaginal/vulvar cancer, genital warts, or other diseases caused by the types of HPV in the vaccine.

Side Effects

Redness, itching, swelling, bruising, and pain at the injection site may occur. Fever may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Fainting has also occurred in some patients after receiving this vaccine. See the Precautions section for more details. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: joint pain/swelling. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US, you may report side effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967. In Canada, you may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
The information contained in the First DataBank databases is intended to supplement the knowledge of physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals regarding drug therapy problems and patient counselling information. This information is advisory only and is not intended to replace sound clinical judgment in the delivery of healthcare services. First DataBank disclaims all warranties, whether expressed or implied, including any warranty as to the quality, accuracy, and suitability of this information for any purpose.