Health Library

Human papillomavirus 9-valent vaccine, recombinant (Injection)

Human Papillomavirus 9-valent Vaccine, Recombinant (HUE-man pap-ah-LOH-mah-VYE-rus 9 VAY-lent VAX-een ree-KOM-bi-nant)

Helps prevent genital warts and cancer of the anus, cervix, vagina, or vulva caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Brand Name(s):

Gardasil 9

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• This vaccine is given as 3 doses. You will receive the second dose 2 months after the first and the third dose 6 months later, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• Missed dose: This vaccine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss your scheduled shot, call your doctor to make another appointment as soon as possible.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how this vaccine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Cancer medicines
  • Steroid medicine (such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone)
• Tell your doctor if you are receiving radiation treatments.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any condition that causes a weak immune system.
• This vaccine will not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases that are not caused by HPV.
• You will need to see your doctor for screening tests for anal or cervical cancer (pap test) even after you receive this vaccine.
• This vaccine may cause you to feel faint, lightheaded, or dizzy right after you receive it. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Pain, redness, itching, or swelling where the shot was given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/4/2017