Physicians may administer the brand-name drug Gardasil to prevent infection from forms of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Known generically as human papillomavirus recombinant quadrivalent, the immunizer functions by creating antibodies to HPV types 18, 16, 11 and 6. Along with preventing infection from HPV, it can aid in the prevention of vaginal, cervical and vulva cancer in young women. HPV infections typically occur through sexual contact. Negative side effects of Gardasil are typically not serious.
Fever
The most common serious side effect of taking Gardasil produces a rise in body temperature beyond the normal range. This occurs because of the action of the antibodies introduced through the use of Gardasil injections. A fever requires aid from a doctor immediately because it may mean a serious reaction to the medication.
Injection Site Problems
Although categorized as non-serious and common side effects of taking Gardasil, certain side effects may occur on the skin of the person at the site of injection. For example, the patient may see streaks of red on the skin, or other problems may exist such as pain, tenderness, itching and swelling. None of these effects classifies as serious. They generally vanish on their own, but patients should consult the doctor if they continue or appear severe.
Dizziness and Headaches
Gardasil can cause patients to feel unbalanced or dizzy following treatment. They also may experience headaches, but neither problem classifies as serious; they should dissipate on their own. Consult a doctor if dizziness or headaches persist or feel like severe problems.
Nausea and Vomiting
Medications, when first introduced into the body, often cause disturbances in the body system. Often, as with the Gardasil vaccine, medicines induce queasiness that can produce vomiting. Most often this queasiness will cease on its own without intervention from a physician.
Syncope
The National Institutes of Health report that syncope or fainting occurs as one of the most common non-serious side effects of taking the Gardasil injection. Fainting can cause injury because of falling.
Member Comments