Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Tarceva. You should take it as directed by your doctor at the same time each day. You must take it on an empty stomach.  This means take it at least one hour before or two hours after eating food. 

Tarceva helps treat cancer in the lung or pancreas. 

Many patients will have side effects, like feeling tired. Mild diarrhea is common. You should ask your doctor if treating it with Imodium is okay. Tarceva can cause dry skin. It's a good idea to start using a daily moisturizing cream, as long as it doesn't contain any alcohol. You should also protect your skin with sunscreen, or avoid the sun altogether. These effects are normal if they are mild. If these or other concerns make you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with any medicine, more serious side effects can occur. These may include severe diarrhea, upset stomach, or loss of appetite. It can also cause rash, eye pain, or changes to your vision, skin, hair, or nails. Some people get a cough or feel short of breath. You should pay close attention to your body, and call your doctor right away if you notice these effects or other unusual changes. 

To keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will order lab work and follow you closely. 

To reduce interactions, you should talk to your doctor before taking other medicine. Also, tell your doctor if you start or stop smoking. 

Women should not become pregnant or breastfeed while taking this medicine, because it can be unsafe for the baby. 

For best results, take Tarceva exactly as prescribed, and read the 'Patient Information Leaflet' for full information.