Comfrey - Bavencio (Avelumab) Interaction
Herbal: Comfrey
Also Known As: Symphytum officinale, Ass Ear, Beinwellwurzel, Black Root, Blackwort, Bruisewort, Common Comfrey, Consolidae Radix, Consoude, Consoude Officinale, Consound, Consuelda, Grande Consoude, Gum Plant, Healing Herb, Herbe aux Charpentiers, Herbe à la Coupure, Knitback
Drug: Avelumab
Brand names:
Bavencio
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Apr 13, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Avelumab and Comfrey. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Comfrey Overview
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the borage family (Boraginaceae). It is native to Europe and Asia and is known for its hairy, green leaves and small, purple, bell-shaped flowers.
Comfrey has a long history of use in traditional medicine and contains a number of active compounds, including allantoin, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, fractures, and skin conditions. In addition, comfrey is believed to have astringent and expectorant effects, and has been used to treat respiratory disorders and coughs. It is important to note that comfrey may cause liver damage if taken in large amounts (orally) or over a long period of time and should be used with caution. The FDA has recommended removal of oral comfrey products from the market due to potential for liver toxicity although it is currently still available. It is most often seen in topical forms (e.g., as an ointment).
Avelumab Overview
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Avelumab injection is used to treat Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC; a type of skin cancer) that has spread to other parts of the body in adults and children 12 years of age and older. Avelumab injection is also used to treat urothelial cancer (cancer of the lining of the bladder and other parts of the urinary tract) that has spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body in people whose cancer worsened during or within 12 months after it was treated with platinum chemotherapy medications. It is also used as ongoing treatment for urothelial cancer that has spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body to help maintain the response to platinum chemotherapy. Avelumab injection is also used in combination with axitinib (Inlyta) as a first treatment for renal cell carcinoma (RCC; cancer that begins in the kidney) that has spread or cannot be removed by surgery. Avelumab injection is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by helping the body to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Comfrey - More Interactions
Comfrey interacts with 409 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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