Vaccine (HPV Vaccine)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Cervarix is a vaccine that protects against two dangerous types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV types 16 and 18), which are the main viruses that cause cervical cancer in women. It works by training your body's immune system to recognize and fight these viruses before they can cause harm.
Activates cellular and humoral immune responses by presenting recombinant HPV-16 and HPV-18 L1 capsid proteins, which stimulate B-cell production of neutralizing antibodies that prevent viral attachment and entry into cervical epithelial cells. This blocks persistent HPV infection and subsequent malignant transformation of cervical tissue.
Prevention of cervical cancer, prevention of pre-cancerous growths in the cervix caused by HPV
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a scheduled dose, go to your clinic as soon as you remember to get the injection. Your doctor will adjust the remaining schedule. You don't need to start over, just make sure you complete all the doses even if there's a delay.
Only receive this vaccine at a registered hospital, clinic, or government immunization centre, never from unverified sources. Make sure you complete all your doses for full protection, as one dose alone may not be enough. This vaccine prevents future HPV infection but does not treat existing cervical cancer or HPV infection, so women should still do regular cervical screening.
If you are taking drugs that weaken your immune system (like steroids or cancer drugs), the vaccine may not work as well, so tell your doctor. Other routine vaccines can usually be given at the same time but at a different injection site. There are no known food or alcohol interactions.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Human with your other drugs?
Cervarix is not recommended during pregnancy. If you discover you are pregnant after starting the doses, delay the remaining doses until after delivery, and inform your doctor.
This vaccine must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C. Do not freeze it. Nigerian heat and sunlight will spoil it quickly, so never leave it outside the fridge. This is why you should only get it at a proper hospital or clinic that stores vaccines correctly. Keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.