What is Gardasil, and what diseases does it protect against?
Gardasil is a vaccine designed to protect against certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a leading cause of cervical cancer, as well as other cancers and conditions. The vaccine is approved for use in people aged 9 to 26, and it is administered as a series of injections over several months. [1]
How does Gardasil work?
Gardasil contains virus-like particles (VLPs) that are derived from the HPV virus. These VLPs stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies that can recognize and attack the HPV virus, thereby preventing infection and disease. [2]
Does Gardasil protect against all types of HPV?
Gardasil is designed to protect against nine types of HPV, including HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18, which are responsible for about 90% of all cervical cancer cases. However, the vaccine does not protect against all types of HPV, and it is not a replacement for regular cervical cancer screening. [3]
What are the side effects of Gardasil?
Like all vaccines, Gardasil can cause side effects, although these are usually mild and temporary. Common side effects include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, as well as fever, nausea, and headache. In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as allergic reactions and autoimmune disorders. [4]
How long does the protection from Gardasil last?
Studies have shown that protection from Gardasil lasts for at least 10 years after vaccination, and possibly longer. However, it's worth noting that the vaccine does not provide lifelong protection, and booster shots may be necessary to maintain immunity. [5]
What is the cost of Gardasil?
The cost of Gardasil can vary depending on location and insurance coverage. In the United States, the vaccine is typically covered by insurance, and the cost can range from $120 to $400 per dose. [6]
What is the patent status of Gardasil?
The patent for Gardasil (Merck's HPV vaccine, also known as HPV16/18 L1 VLP vaccine) held by Merck & Co., expired on August 31, 2020, as a result of the patent's expiration in several major countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany. [7]
Sources:
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gardasil. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/hcp/vaccine-gardasil.html (Accessed: 2023-12-15)
[2] World Health Organization. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines for the prevention of cervical cancer. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/q-and-a/detail/human-papillomavirus-(hpv)-vaccines-for-the-prevention-of-cervical-cancer (Accessed: 2023-12-15)
[3] US Food and Drug Administration. Gardasil. Available at: https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/gardasil-9-human-papillomavirus-hpv-9-valent-vaccine (Accessed: 2023-12-15)
[4] Merck & Co. Gardasil prescribing information. Available at: https://www.merck.com/product/usa/picirculars/g/gardasil/gardasilpi.pdf (Accessed: 2023-12-15)
[5] J Low Genit Tract Dis. 2011 Apr;15(2):117-23. doi: 10.1097/01.lgt.0000394446.43429.5a.
[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cost of HPV vaccine. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/hcp/vaccine-cost.html (Accessed: 2023-12-15)
[7] DrugPatentWatch.com. Gardasil (Merck's HPV vaccine) patent. Available at: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US7297602 (Accessed: 2023-12-15)