Gardasil is the cervical cancer vaccine. It is effective against four varieties of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).  It can prevent infections caused by HPV types 6, 11, 6 and 18. Of these, HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for 70 percent cervical cancers and types 6 and 11 cause about 90 percent of genital warts. Gardasil is manufactured by Merck and Co.

The US FDA approved it in September 2006. However, Merck and Co. is seeking FDA approval for Gardasil in treating women of age range 27-45.

Gardasil is a prophylactic HPV vaccine to prevent the onset of HPV infection. It is administered in young women of age group 9-26. It functions effectively before any contacts with HPV Types 6, 11, 16 and 18. Sexual activity does not matter as the individual may not be exposed to all types of HPV. Gardasil is found to be protective against vulvar and vaginal cancers. It is even effective in males in providing protection against genital warts and pre-cancerous lesions. This vaccine is expected to be promising for the treatment of penile and anal cancer.

The vaccine is administered in three doses over a period of 6 months. It is given as injections. Gardasil prevents precancerous cervical cell variations due to HPV types by targeting the virus for about 4 years after vaccination.

Gardasil contains a recombinant VLP assembled from L1 proteins of four types of HPV. They trigger an antibody response to protect the body from HPV infection. The vaccine provides a long term protection to the body. It is a cost effective vaccine to enhance the adolescent health.

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