Gardasil is a vaccination used for the prevention of cervical cancer and genital warts caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV. According to the manufacturer, in girls and young women ages 9 to 26, Gardasil helps protect against 2 types of HPV that cause about 75 percent of cervical cancer cases, and 2 more types that cause 90 percent of genital warts cases. The vaccine is usually offered to females between the ages of 9 and 26, and given in three separate injections. Gardasil has some side effects and complications that patients should discuss with their physicians.
Injection Site Complications
Patients may develop a skin reaction at the site of Gardasil injection. According to the Food and Drug Administration, FDA, common reactions may include swelling, itching, pain, redness, soreness or bruising at the site of injection. A cool compress may help to alleviate swelling or discomfort at the affected area. If pain or soreness becomes bothersome, patients may ask their healthcare provider about using of an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen. These complications should subside within a few hours or days following vaccination.
Fainting and Injury
According to the manufacturer, fainting with or without seizure, dizziness, or like activity, such as shaking and tremors, are possible side effects following vaccination with Gardasil. This can lead to additional complications, such as sustaining an injury from falling or fainting. Physicians will recommended that patients remain seated and under observation for at least 15 minutes following vaccination to prevent injury. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, Guillain-Barré Syndrome or GBS, which is a rare disorder that causes muscle weakness, has been reported. If fainting, dizziness, or tremors are accompanied by muscle tingling and weakness, then patients should contact a health-care provider immediately.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Patients may experience a low-grade fever or flu-like symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting following vaccination with Gardasil. Approximately 93 percent of women who received the Gardasil vaccine reported complications that included flu-like symptoms, according to the CDC. Patients who experience a fever may treat it with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as per their doctor's consent. Those who experience severe vomiting may be at risk for dehydration, which can become dangerous. Physicians should instruct patients to drink an adequate amount of fluids, and contact them if symptoms worsen.
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