HPV Vaccine consists of the active constituent Human Papilloma Virus vaccine. It is indicated to protect your body against infections and diseases caused by the human papilloma virus types 6, 11, 16, and 18. These virus types cause diseases like pre-cancerous lesions in the female genital areas (cervix, vulva, vagina) and anal regions and cause genital warts in males and females. 
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved the first HPV vaccine, Gardasil, in June 2006 for females between the ages of 9 and 26 to prevent certain types of cancers and genital warts. The FDA later approved Gardasil 9, a newer version of the vaccine that protects against additional strains of HPV, in December 2014 for use in both males and females between the ages of 9 and 45.

The HPV vaccine is used to prevent infections with certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical, anal, and other types of cancer, as well as genital warts.

The HPV vaccine is typically administered as a healthcare provider's injection into the upper arm or thigh muscle. The specific administration technique may vary slightly depending on the vaccine product and the age of the person receiving the vaccine.

The HPV vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated, with most individuals experiencing only mild side effects. Common side effects may include pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site, as well as mild fever, headache, or fatigue. More serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction or fainting, may occur in rare cases.

In rare cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to the HPV vaccine, which can be serious and require emergency medical attention. Fainting or syncope can occur after receiving this vaccine, particularly in adolescents. Individuals with a history of blood clotting disorders may be at an increased risk of developing blood clots after receiving this vaccine. Following vaccination, there have been rare reports of GBS (Guillain-Barré Syndrome), a rare neurological disorder.

Inform your healthcare provider of any medical conditions or allergies before receiving the  HPV vaccine. Tell your doctor if you have a history of fainting or syncope, and sit or lie down during and for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Patients with a history of blood clotting disorders or other medical conditions that affect their immune system, talk to your healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects after receiving the vaccine, seek medical attention immediately.

The HPV vaccine is safe and effective. But it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider to understand its potential benefits and risks and address any concerns you may have. Patients should take care of infusion reactions if they have any and tell their doctor immediately. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or on immunosuppressive medications, may have a reduced response to the vaccine. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms after receiving the vaccine, such as severe headache or abdominal pain.

1. Merck and Co Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on 2015] [Accessed on 29th April 2023], https://www.fda.gov/files/vaccines,%20blood%20&%20biologics/published/Package-Insert---Gardasil.pdf
2. L Cheng et al., Human Papilloma Virus vaccines: An updated review, [Published on 2020] [Accessed on 29th April 2023], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7565290/
3. F T Cutts, Human Papillomavirus and Cervarix Injections, [Published on 2007] [Accessed on 29th April 2023], https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18026629/

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.