human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, 9-valent

What is the most important information I should know about human papillomavirus 9-valent vaccine?

What is human papillomavirus (HPV) 9-valent vaccine?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted disease that can cause genital warts. HPV can also cause anal cancer or various cancers of the cervix, vagina, vulva, oropharynx (the middle part of the throat), or head and neck.

HPV 9-valent vaccine is used in children and adults ages 9 through 45 to prevent genital warts or cancers caused by certain types of HPV.

HPV 9-valent vaccine prevents diseases caused only by HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. It will not prevent diseases caused by other types of HPV.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends HPV vaccine for all boys and girls ages 11 or 12 years old. The vaccine is also recommended in teenage boys and girls who have not already received the vaccine or have not completed all booster shots.

Like any vaccine, the HPV 9-valent vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

HPV 9-valent vaccine may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving HPV 9-valent vaccine?

HPV 9-valent vaccine will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, syphilis, and trichomoniasis.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• an allergy to yeast, polysorbate 80, or to other vaccines;
• a weak immune system (caused by conditions such as HIV or cancer); or
• treatment with cancer medicine, steroids, or other drugs that can weaken your immune system.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of HPV 9-valent vaccine on the baby.

How is HPV 9-valent vaccine given?

HPV 9-valent vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle in your upper arm or thigh. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

HPV 9-valent vaccine is given in a series of 2 or 3 shots. You may have the first shot at any time as long as you are between the ages of 9 and 45 years old. The second dose is given 2 to 6 months after your first shot. A third dose may be given 6 to 12 months after your first shot.

Be sure to receive all recommended doses of this vaccine or you may not be fully protected against disease.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Contact your doctor if you miss a booster dose or if you get behind schedule. The next dose should be given as soon as possible. There is no need to start over.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid before or after receiving HPV 9-valent vaccine?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What are the possible side effects of HPV 9-valent vaccine?

Keep track of any and all side effects you have after receiving this vaccine. When you receive a booster dose, you will need to tell the doctor if the previous shot caused any side effects.

Developing cancer from HPV is much more dangerous to your health than receiving the vaccine to protect against it. However, like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects but the risk of serious side effects is extremely low.

Common side effects may include:

• pain, swelling, or redness where the shot was given; or
• headache.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

What other drugs will affect HPV 9-valent vaccine?

Other drugs may affect HPV 9-valent vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about this vaccine. Additional information is available from your local health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.