Gardasil Vaccine
Description
Gardasil vaccine protects you against four types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) - 6, 11, 16 and 18. It helps prevent genital warts (caused by HPV 6 and 11) and serious cancers such as cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancers caused by HPV 16 and 18.
The CDC recommends Gardasil vaccine for girls, women, boys and men ages between 9 and 45 years old. The vaccine contains virus-like particles (VLPs) that mimic the outer shell of HPV but contain no viral DNA, making it completely safe while still triggering a strong immune response. The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to HPV.
Pain, swelling, redness, itching, bruising, bleeding, a lump at the injection site, headache, fever, nausea, and dizziness are among the possible side effects. These effects are typically short-lived and resolve on their own.
Before receiving the Gardasil vaccine, it is essential to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have any known allergies. It is advisable to refrain from vaccination if you have experienced a severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine.
Product Summary
Offer Price | ₹3280.65 |
You Save | ₹646.35 (16% on MRP) |
Contains | Human Papilloma Virus Vaccine Quadrivalent(0.5 Ml) |
Uses | Human papillomavirus (HPV) associated cervical, vaginal, vulvar, oropharyngeal, head and neck cancers |
Side effects | Injection-site reactions (pain, swelling, and redness), Headache, Nausea, Pyrexia, Fatigue, and Dizziness |
Therapy | HPV VACCINE |
Uses
- HPV-Related Diseases and Cancers: Gardasil vaccine acts as the primary prevention method against HPV-related diseases and cancers.
- Cervical Cancer Prevention: With Gardasil vaccine, cervical cancer caused by HPV types 16 and 18, which affects thousands of women worldwide can be prevented.
- Genital Warts Prevention: 90% of genital warts are caused by HPV types 6 and 11. With Gardasil vaccine, genital warts can be prevented and provide excellent protection against these uncomfortable and potentially recurrent lesions....
- Other Cancer Prevention: Gardasil vaccine protects against other types of cancers caused by HPC infection, such as anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharyngeal (throat) cancers.
- Target Population: Gardasil vaccine is recommended for girls, women, boys and men between the ages of 9 and 45 years old.
Contraindications
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to any component of Gardasil vaccine or previous HPV vaccine doses should not receive the vaccine.
- Yeast Allergy: Individuals with severe yeast allergies should avoid vaccination since Gardasil vaccine contains yeast proteins from the manufacturing process.
- Immunocompromised Individuals: People with severely compromised immune systems may not develop optimal immunity from Gardasil vaccination. Consult your doctor before getting vaccinated.
- Bleeding Disorders: People with bleeding disorders or who are on blood-thinning medications should follow some special precautions as suggested by your doctor, as Gardasil vaccine may cause bleeding complications....
Side effects
- Injection site reactions - Pain and tenderness, redness and swelling, bruising or discolouration, and warmth
- Headache
- Mild fever
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Fainting (Syncope)
- Dizziness
- Joint pain
- Severe allergic reaction like anaphylaxis (occurs in fewer than 1 in 1 million doses)
- Shoulder injury due to improper injection technique
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
- You have bleeding disorders like haemophilia.
- You are pregnant or planning to get pregnant.
- You have a compromised immune system, for instance, as a result of a genetic defect, HIV infection, or immune-compromising medications.
- You suffer from an illness with a high fever.
- Gardasil Vaccine may not completely protect everyone who receives it, as is the case with any vaccine.
- You are taking any other medications or over-the-counter medicines.
Directions for Use
- Do not self-inject or administer the Gardasil vaccine.
- Gardasil vaccine is given by either your doctor or nurse.
- Follow the aftercare instructions suggested by the doctor.
- Gardasil vaccine must be administered as an intramuscular injection, preferably in the muscle of the upper arm.
- The vaccine should never be given intravenously, intradermally, or subcutaneously.
- Gardasil vaccine can be given in either a 2-dose or a 3-dose schedule.
- Gardasil vaccine can be given simultaneously with other age-appropriate vaccines, including Meningococcal vaccines, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), COVID-19 vaccines, and Influenza vaccines.
- Different injection sites should be used when multiple vaccines are administered during the same visit.
- Standard Schedule (Ages 9-14): Gardasil can be administered in either a 2-dose or a 3-dose schedule. For the 2-dose schedule, the second dose should be administered 6 to 12 months after the first dose. If the second dose is administered earlier than 5 months after the first dose, administer a third dose at least 4 months after the second dose....
- Two doses given 6-12 months apart provide optimal protection when vaccination begins before age 15.
- Catch-up Schedule (Ages 15 - 45): Three doses are required - initial dose, second dose 1-2 months later, and third dose 6 months after the first dose.
- A healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dosing schedule.
- Timing Flexibility: While specific intervals are recommended, some flexibility exists. The minimum interval between first and second doses is 4 weeks, and between second and third doses is 12 weeks.
Storage and disposal
- Gardasil vaccine must be stored refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
- The vaccine should never be frozen, as freezing destroys vaccine potency.
- Store the vaccine in the original packaging to protect from light exposure, which can degrade vaccine components.
- Used Gardasil injections or syringes should be disposed of according to local biomedical waste regulations.
- Expired Gardasil injections must be disposed of as pharmaceutical waste through approved disposal services.
Quick Tips
- Eat a light meal before your appointment as it prevents you from fainting.
- Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm.
- List all your current medications and allergies.
- Get adequate sleep the night before your appointment.
- Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
- Remain calm and relaxed to minimize discomfort.
- If you feel dizzy or unwell, inform your healthcare provider immediately.
- Breathe normally during the injection of Gardasil vaccine.
- Stay seated or lying down for 15 minutes after vaccination.
- Apply ice to the injection site if it becomes sore.
- Keep the injection site clean and dry.
- Schedule your next dose before leaving the clinic/hospital.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Widespread rash or hives
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- High fever (over 39°C/102°F)
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Practice safe sex
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Continue regular cervical cancer screening as recommended
- Keep vaccination records in a safe and accessible place.
Dosage
Overdose
Missed a Dose
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
- Gardasil injection works by stimulating the immune system with virus-like particles (VLPs) that closely resemble actual HPV viruses but contain no genetic material.
- After vaccination, the immune system sees these VLPs as a foreign substance and produces antibodies that remain in circulation. This provides immediate protection against future HPV exposure.
- Gardasil vaccine will stimulate the formation of memory B cells and T cells, which "remember" HPV and provide long-lasting immunity that persists for many years.
- Widespread vaccination with Gardasil reduces HPV circulation, creating a “herd immunity effect” that protects even unvaccinated individuals.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Gardasil vaccine effectiveness may be reduced in individuals who are on immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids (high doses) and chemotherapy agents.
- Most dietary supplements don't interact with Gardasil, but inform healthcare providers about high-dose vitamin supplements, herbal immune system modulators, and probiotics (generally safe).
- Moderate alcohol consumption doesn't affect vaccine response, but excessive alcohol may impair immune function.
- Tobacco may reduce the effectiveness of the Gardasil injection and increase the risk of HPV-related disease.
Content Details

Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm

Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between Cervarix and Gardasil vaccine?
Q: Can Gardasil injection cause HPV infection or fertility problems?
Q: Where can I get Gardasil vaccine and how much does it cost?
Q: Is Gardasil vaccine safe for my child?
Q: How long does Gardasil vaccine protection last?
Q: What if I misses a dose of Gardasil vaccine?
Q: Can the vaccine be given during illness?
Q: Is the vaccine covered by insurance?
Q: What are the side effects of Gardasil?
Q: Is there a cure for HPV infection?
Q: I have received the Gardasil vaccine. Do I still need to get Pap smear tests?
References
- Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. HPV (Human Papillomavirus) VACCINES [Internet]. Atlanta: CDC; [updated 2024 Sep 27; cited 2025 Aug 20].
- McCormack PL, Joura EA. Spotlight on quadrivalent human papillomavirus (types 6, 11, 16, 18) recombinant vaccine (Gardasil®) in the prevention of premalignant genital lesions, genital cancer, and genital warts in women. BioDrugs. 2011 Oct 1;25(5):339–43.
- World Health Organisation. Cervical cancer [Internet]. Geneva: WHO; [updated 2024 Mar 5; cited 2025 Aug 20].
- Zhu F, Zhong G, Huang W, Chu K, Zhang L, Bi Z, et al. Head-to-head immunogenicity comparison of an Escherichia coli-produced 9-valent human papillomavirus vaccine and Gardasil 9 in women aged 18-26 years in China: a randomised blinded clinical trial. Lancet Infect Dis. 2023 Nov;23(11):1313–22.
- Sharma H, Parekh S, Pujari P, Shewale S, Desai S, Bhatla N, et al. Immunogenicity and safety of a new quadrivalent HPV vaccine in girls and boys aged 9-14 years versus an established quadrivalent HPV vaccine in women aged 15-26 years in India: a randomised, active-controlled, multicentre, phase 2/3 trial. Lancet Oncol. 2023 Dec;24(12):1321–33.
- Gardasil 9 PPI - Merck & Co. [Internet]. Patient Information about GARDASIL . [cited 2025 March 25]
- Drugs@CDSCO [Internet]. CDSCO. [cited 2025 March 25]
- Gardasil 9, INN-Human Papillomavirus 9 valent Vaccine (Recombinant, adsorbed) - Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) - (EMC) [Internet]. Medicines.org.uk. [cited 2025 March 25]
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HPV vaccine administration | human papillomavirus vaccination | CDC [Internet]. www.cdc.gov. 2025. [cited 2025 May 26]
- Serum Institute Of India - CERVAVAC - Quadrivalent Human Papilloma Virus (Serotypes 6, 11, 16 and 18) Vaccine (Recombinant) [Internet]. www.seruminstitute.com. 2025. [cited 2025 May 26]
- CDSCO [Internet]. cdsco.gov.in. HPV. 2025. [cited 2025 May 26]
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