Guide Note

Gardasil is the brand name of the HPV Vaccine marketed by Merck. Gardasil was approved by the FDA in June of 2006.

Used for

Gardasil was the first approved vaccine that has been developed for the prevention of cervical cancer, precancerous genital lesions and genital warts caused by HPV, a sexually transmitted disease. HPV is the most common STD in the United States. Researchers claim that Gardasil is effective against HPV types 16 and 18, which are the cause of approximately 70 percent of cervical cancers, and HPV types 6 and 11, which are the cause of 90 percent of genital warts. Gardasil is approved for females from the ages of 9 to 26 years old.

Fast Facts

1. For females 9-26
2. Works on HPV types 16, 18, 6 and 11
3. Prevents cervical cancer
4. Recommended for sexually active females
5. Females allergic to yeast or any component of yeast should not receive the vaccine
6. Not a live virus
7. Expected to prevent 70% of cervical cancer
8. Does not protect against all types of HPV
9. Still should receive pap smears regularly
10. 3 separate doses
11. 2nd dose 2 months after 1st, 3rd dose 6 months after first

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Gardasil.