CERVARIX
Cervarix is the cervical cancer vaccine manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. In the UK it is the inoculation of choice for the national programme against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
Cervarix is a bivalent vaccine that protects against HPV 16 and 18 but also provides a prolonged immunity due to the adjuvant AS04.
It protects against the following diseases:
· Cervical Cancer
· Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
· Human Papillomavirus Type 16 L1 protein 20 micrograms
· Human Papillomavirus Type 18 L1 protein 20 micrograms
· AS04 containing:
3-O-desacyl-4’- monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) 50 micrograms
(adsorbed on aluminium hydroxide, hydrated (Al(OH)3) 0.5 milligrams Al 3+ in total )
How does it work?
The vaccine contains an inactive form of the virus. This means it can protect against the virus specifically but will not cause the disease. The L1 capsid proteins produce non-infectious virus-like particles via DNA recombinant technology. This triggers the immune system to produce antibodies against HPV types 16 and 18 which remain in the body to protect it from viral attack.
How is it administered?
Immunisation using Cerviarix requires 3 doses, injected into the Deltoid muscle of the upper arm. Each dose is 0.5ml. After the initial vaccination, the second and third are given at 1 month and 6 months respectively.
Clinical Trials
Over 5 years, 20,000 women between the ages of 15-25 were tested. It was found that Cervarix was safe and protected against HPV. It was discovered that Cervarix not only increased the number of antibodies, but doubled the number in girls aged 10 – 14.
Side Effects
As with any other drug there are some side effects.
Very common;
· itching/redness at application site
· headaches
· tiredness
Common;
· nausea/vomiting/diarrhoea
· fever
Uncommon;
· dizziness
· upper respiratory tract infection