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quadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine

University of Pittsburgh · FDA-approved active Biologic

The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against four types of human papillomavirus (HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18) to prevent infection and associated diseases.

The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against four types of human papillomavirus (HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18) to prevent infection and associated diseases. Used for Prevention of cervical cancer caused by HPV types 16 and 18, Prevention of genital warts caused by HPV types 6 and 11, Prevention of anal cancer and other HPV-related cancers.

At a glance

Generic namequadrivalent human papillomavirus vaccine
Also known asGardasil
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh
Drug classvaccine
TargetHuman papillomavirus types 6, 11, 16, 18
ModalityBiologic
Therapeutic areaOncology / Immunology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

The quadrivalent HPV vaccine contains virus-like particles (VLPs) derived from the major capsid protein of four HPV types. These VLPs are non-infectious but structurally similar to natural HPV virions, triggering a robust humoral immune response that generates neutralizing antibodies. This antibody response provides protection against infection by these HPV types, preventing cervical cancer, genital warts, and other HPV-related malignancies.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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