Gardasil is a vaccine that was approved for girls and women between the ages of 9 and 26 for the prevention of genital warts and cervical cancer caused by four human papillomavirus (HPV) types. Though there are many HPV strains, Gardasil offers protection against four of the most common types: types 6, 11, 16 and 18. Types 6 and 11 are the common causes of genital warts, while types 16 and 18 carry a high risk of leading to cervical cancer. The vaccine does not, however, offer any assistance in the treatment of genital warts or cervical cancer. Like other vaccines, Gardasil also has many side effects.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Gardasil are drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Drowsiness and dizziness occur in about four percent of individuals, so use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery. Nausea can occur in up to seven percent of individuals taking Gardasil. Chewing gum or sucking on lozenges can help alleviate this. Eating small, frequent meals can help alleviate vomiting and diarrhea, which can occur in about two to four percent of individuals.
Injection Site Reactions
Gardasil is injected into the deltoid (upper arm) or thigh muscle in three separate doses. The first dose is administered on the first day, the second dose is administered two months after the first one, and the third dose is given six months after the first dose to complete the series. According the Drug Information Handbook, about 84 percent of people will experience pain at the injection site after the administration of Gardasil. Swelling, bruising, redness and a rash may also develop at the injection site; this may occur in about 25 percent of individuals. Contact your doctor if any of these symptoms become severe.
Fever and Headache
Headaches occur in about 28 percent of people taking Gardasil. Fever may also occur in up to 13 percent of individuals but is not a source of worry when it occurs after the vaccine is given.
Fainting
Another side effect of Gardasil, seen primarily in preteen girls, is fainting. After the administration of the shot, it is important for individuals to sit or lie down for 15 minutes. This is important to make sure that there are no injuries due to a fall.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook 15th Edition"; Charles F. Lacy, RPh, PharmD, FCSHP, Lora L. Armstrong, RPh, PharmD, BCPS. et al; 2007
- Gardasil.com: Gardasil Side Effects
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HPV Vaccine Information for Young Women
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