Cervarix Side Effects

Generic name: human papillomavirus vaccine

Note: This document contains side effect information about human papillomavirus vaccine. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Cervarix.

Some side effects of Cervarix may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to human papillomavirus vaccine: intramuscular suspension

You should not receive a booster vaccine if you have had a life-threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.

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.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking human papillomavirus vaccine (the active ingredient contained in Cervarix) hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

You may feel faint after receiving this vaccine. Some people have had seizure-like reactions after receiving this vaccine. Your doctor may want you to remain under observation during the first 15 minutes after the injection.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe stomach pain;

• swollen glands;

• easy bruising or bleeding, confusion, unusual weakness;

• fever, chills, body aches, general ill feeling;

• chest pain; or

• feeling short of breath.

Less serious side effects of human papillomavirus vaccine may include:

• pain, swelling, redness, bruising, or itching where the shot was given;

• mild fever, headache, dizziness, tired feeling;

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• sleep problems (insomnia);

• runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough; or

• tooth pain, joint or muscle pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to human papillomavirus vaccine: intramuscular suspension

Local

Local side effects have included injection site pain, swelling, erythema, and pruritus.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and toothache.

General

General side effects have included fever, dizziness, malaise, and insomnia. Postmarketing reports have included asthenia and fatigue.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included cough, nasal congestion, nasopharyngitis, and upper respiratory tract infection.

Musculoskeletal

Musculoskeletal side effects have included myalgia and arthralgia.

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