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Gardasil 9

HPV vaccine
Used for HPV
Used for HPV

Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) is an FDA approved vaccine that helps protect against certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a virus that can cause genital warts and certain cancers. This vaccine is recommended for all children starting at ages 9 to 14, and it's also approved for adults up to age 45. Depending on your age, you’ll receive 2 or 3 doses. It's given as a shot into the muscle by a healthcare professional. Common side effects include headache and injection-site reactions like pain or swelling.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Daisy Chau, PharmD
Last reviewed on August 13, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsLatest newsImagesPricesMedicare
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What is Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)?

What is Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) used for?

How Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) works

Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) is a recombinant vaccine that helps protect you from human papillomavirus (HPV). It contains pieces of the virus that trigger your immune system to make antibodies against 9 different types of HPV.

If you're exposed to HPV later on, these antibodies help fight off the virus. This can prevent infection and lower your risk of genital warts and certain cancers like cervical, vulvar, vaginal, anal, throat, and other head and neck cancers.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsGardasil 9
Drug ClassVaccine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

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What are the side effects of Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Pain at the injection site
  • Swelling at the injection site
  • Redness at the injection site
  • Headache

Other Side Effects

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Sore throat
  • Itchiness at the injection site
  • Bruising at the injection site

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious allergic reactions: trouble breathing, wheezing, hives, rash

Source: DailyMed

More on Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) side effects

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The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)

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Pros

Works very well to protect against genital warts and cancers caused by HPV

Safe and lasts at least 12 years

Can be given at the same time as other vaccines

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Cons

Need to receive 2 to 3 injections to complete the series

Must be injected by a healthcare professional

Common side effects include pain and swelling at the injection site

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)

pharmacist

  • It's important to complete the full Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) vaccine series. This gives you the best protection against HPV.

    • Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) doesn’t protect you from HPV types you were already exposed to through sex. It works best when given before any exposure to the virus. Talk to your healthcare professional to find out if it's still a good option for you.

      • Fainting has happened after getting Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine). To stay safe, your healthcare professional might ask you to sit or lie down for about 15 minutes after your shot.

        faqs

        Frequently asked questions about Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)

        How long does Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) last?
        Studies show that Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) protects against HPV for at least 12 years without needing a booster shot. If you have any questions about how long the vaccine lasts, talk to your healthcare professional for guidance.
        How many shots do you get with Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)?
        The number of Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) shots you need depends on your age and timing between doses. Most people who start the vaccine between ages 9 and 14 get 2 doses: one shot, then another 6 to 12 months later. But if the second dose is given less than 5 months after the first, you might need a third dose. People who start the series at age 15 or older typically get 3 doses total: one shot, a second shot 1 to 2 months later, and a final shot 6 months after the first. If you're not sure which schedule is right for you, ask your healthcare professional.
        How effective is Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)?
        Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) is very effective at protecting you from HPV that can lead to genital warts and certain cancers. If you get all the recommended doses, the vaccine can prevent over 90% of these cancers. Since the vaccine became available, HPV infections from the types that cause most cancers and warts have dropped by 88% in teen girls and 81% in young adult women. Talk to your healthcare professional if you’re not sure whether you or your child should get vaccinated.
        Is Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) a live vaccine?
        No, Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) isn't a live vaccine — it's a recombinant vaccine. This means it contains harmless pieces of the virus that help your body build protection.
        Where do you get Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)?
        Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) is usually available at most outpatient pharmacies that offer vaccines. You might also get it at your primary care provider's office or clinic. Call ahead to check availability and see if you need an appointment.
        Does Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) cause infertility?
        No, Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) doesn't cause infertility. Research has found no evidence linking the HPV vaccine to infertility or problems getting pregnant. If you have questions or concerns about how the vaccine might affect fertility, talk to your healthcare professional.
        Can you get Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) while pregnant?
        If you're pregnant, the CDC recommends waiting until after you've given birth to get Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine). This is because there haven't been enough studies to show that the vaccine is safe or effective during pregnancy. Let your healthcare professional know if you're pregnant so they can decide what's best for you.
        What's the difference between Gardasil 9 and Gardasil?
        Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) is a newer version of the original Gardasil vaccine, and the main difference is how many types of HPV each one protects against. Gardasil protects against 4 types of HPV, while Gardasil 9 protects against 9 types of HPV. Gardasil 9 is the only version currently available in the United States.
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        What are the risks and warnings for Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)?

        Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

        risk-warning

        Fainting

        Some people might feel lightheaded or faint after getting Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine). This could lead to falling and getting hurt. In rare cases, fainting might come with stiffness or shaking, which can look like a seizure. To help prevent injury, your healthcare professional might ask you to sit or lie down for about 15 minutes after the shot.

        risk-warning

        Severe allergic reactions

        • Risk factors: Allergy to yeast

          In very rare cases, serious allergic reactions like anaphylaxis can happen after getting Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine). Let your healthcare professional know if you experience trouble breathing, wheezing, hives, or a rash after the injection. Also, this vaccine contains yeast, so tell your prescriber if you've ever had an allergy to yeast or another vaccine made with yeast.

          dosage

          Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) dosage forms

          Typical dosing for Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine)

          The typical dose is 0.5 mL injected into the shoulder or thigh muscle by a healthcare professional.

          Ages 9 to 14 years:

          • 2-dose series: You'll receive one dose at the first visit, then the second dose 6 to 12 months later.

            • If the second dose is given less than 5 months after the first dose, the third dose should be given at least 4 months after the second dose.

          • 3-dose series: You'll receive one dose at the first visit, the second dose at 2 months, and the third dose at 6 months.

          Ages 15 to 45 years:

          • 3-dose series: You'll receive one dose at the first visit, the second dose at 2 months, and the third dose at 6 months.

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          How much does Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) cost?

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          Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) contraindications

          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) will not be safe for you to take.

          • Allergy to yeast

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          Gardasil 9 (HPV vaccine) images

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          This medicine is White Syringe.white - Gardasil 9 Suspension for Injection

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