What is Cervarix?
Cervarix is given to girls and women aged 9–25 years old in order to prevent cervical cancer due to certain types of HPV (16 and 18). HPV can cause warts on the genital area, cancer of the cervix, and anal cancer. Cervarix can only be used by women. Both males and females can use other HPV vaccines, such as Gardasil and Gardasil 9. This guide contains information on Cervarix only.
Cervarix can be given to you even if your pap test was abnormal or you had previously tested positive for HPV. This vaccine does not cure an infection or cancer caused by HPV. Cervarix prevents only diseases caused by HPV types 16 and 18. Cervarix does not protect against diseases caused by HPV types 16 and 18.
Cervarix can only be used by females. Other HPV vaccines are available for males. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend HPV vaccination for boys and girls aged 11 or 12. The vaccine is recommended for teenage girls and boys who haven't received the HPV vaccine yet or haven't completed their booster shots. Cervarix, like any vaccine, may not protect everyone from disease.
Warnings
If you had a severe allergic reaction to the first dose, then you should not get a booster shot. Cervarix can make you feel faint. Cervarix has caused seizures in some people.
Before you take this drug
If you had a severe allergic reaction to the first dose, then you should not get a booster shot.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Cervarix will be safe for you:
- A weak immune system
- Latex allergy;
- If you are taking cancer medication, steroids, or any other drug that may weaken your immunity,
Cervarix should not harm an unborn child. Inform your doctor if you are or plan to be pregnant. The human papillomavirus vaccination does not pass into breast milk. It is also unknown if the vaccine could harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if a child is breastfed. Cervarix does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.
How to take Cervarix?
Cervarix can be administered as an injection into the muscle of your upper arm. This injection will be given in a clinic or doctor's office. Cervarix comes in three shots. The first shot can be given at any age between 9 and 25. You will then need to receive your second shot 1 month after receiving your first one, and your third shot 6 months after the first. Ensure you get all the recommended doses. You may not be protected from disease if you don't receive all the recommended doses. Cervarix is not a substitute for a pelvic examination, and a pap smear is not a screening tool for cervical cancer.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are behind on your Cervarix booster or miss a dose, contact your doctor. The next dose should be administered as soon as you can. There is no need to start again.
What happens if I overdose?
Cervarix can be taken in excess, but it is rare.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Cervarix
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat, Keeping track of all side effects after Cervarix is important. You will need to inform your doctor of any side effects you experience after receiving Cervarix. Cervarix may make you feel faint. Some people have experienced seizure-like symptoms after receiving the human papillomavirus vaccine. You may be asked to stay under observation for the first 15 minutes following the injection. The vaccine is not as effective at protecting against HPV. Cervarix, like all medicines, can have side effects, but the risks of serious side effects are extremely low.
Cervarix may cause side effects such as:
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site;
- Headache, fatigue feeling
- Joint or muscle pain
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain,
- Swollen glands.
There may be other side effects.Need medical advice about side effects? Speak with your physician. Report the side effects of vaccines to the US Department of Health and Human Services by calling 1-800-822-7967.
Interaction with other drug
HPV bivalent vaccination can interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
