It’s undeniable that GLP-1 weight loss drugs have completely overhauled the medical landscape. And while until now they’ve only been available to British customers as injections, the first oral pill has just been approved for use in the UK, which means their use is undoubtedly going to become even more prevalent.Of course, the new iteration of Ozempic pills raises all kinds of questions, from whether you can still enjoy a glass of wine to how they impact contraception and fertility. That’s why we asked Dr Clair Grainger, online doctor at Superdrug, to weigh in on the most common queries once and for all.Keep reading for the full low-down on exactly how the new GLP-1 pills affect everything from your hair to your alcohol tolerance. That way, if you are considering the new medication, you make the decisions in a healthier, more mindful way.Will the pill make my hair fall out?It's perhaps not the first side effect people expect, but hair loss is one of the concerns doctors are increasingly being asked about when it comes to weight loss pills.The reassuring news, according to Dr Grainger, is that any increased shedding is more likely to be linked to the weight loss itself than the medication. When the body experiences significant weight loss over a relatively short period of time, hair follicles can temporarily enter what's known as a resting phase, leading to more noticeable shedding.She explains that this type of hair loss is usually temporary rather than permanent. As the body adjusts to its new weight and things begin to stabilise, hair growth often returns to normal and the excessive shedding typically settles down.Is the pill more likely to cause hair loss than weight-loss injections?Dr Grainger says there is currently no evidence suggesting oral Wegovy carries a higher risk of hair loss than injectable GLP-1 medications. Instead, the most likely explanation remains the weight loss itself rather than the method by which the medication is delivered.In other words, whether someone loses weight through injections, tablets or any other method, rapid changes in body weight can sometimes trigger temporary hair shedding. The pill itself doesn't appear to be creating an additional risk.Can it affect my sex drive?While changes in libido aren't considered a direct side effect of oral weight-loss medication, some patients do notice differences in how they feel.Dr Grainger explains that this can work both ways. On one hand, common side effects such as nausea, headaches or fatigue may temporarily make people feel less interested in sex while their body adjusts to treatment. On the other, losing weight can often improve energy levels, confidence and overall wellbeing.Some patients may also notice improvements in weight-related health issues, such as joint pain or erectile dysfunction, which can have a positive knock-on effect on libido. As a result, some people may find their sex drive decreases initially before improving later, while others notice no change at all.What about fertility treatment?Questions around fertility are becoming increasingly common as awareness of weight-loss medications grows. According to Dr Grainger, some fertility specialists and GPs may recommend weight loss for patients who are overweight, either to improve the chances of conceiving naturally or to increase the likelihood of successful IVF treatment.However, she stresses that women who are actively trying to conceive should not use weight-loss medication. Because semaglutide remains in the body for a significant period of time, current guidance recommends stopping treatment at least two months before trying for a baby.Anyone considering fertility treatment should discuss their circumstances with their GP or fertility specialist before starting or stopping medication.What happens if I'm sick after taking it?For many people, one of the biggest worries is what happens if they vomit shortly after taking a tablet. Dr Grainger says the most important thing is not to panic and, crucially, not to take another dose the same day.Even if someone suspects the tablet hasn't been fully absorbed, taking an additional dose could increase the risk of side effects and result in more medication being taken than intended.Instead, patients should follow the guidance in their patient information leaflet and continue with their normal dosing schedule the following day. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms or uncertainty should seek advice from a doctor or healthcare professional.Can I still take the contraceptive pill?In general, taking weight loss drugs and contraceptives together shouldn’t be an issue. Dr Grainger says oral weight-loss medications are not known to directly interfere with oral contraception.However, there is a caveat. If someone experiences vomiting or diarrhoea, which can be side effects of GLP-1 drugs, absorption of other medications can be affected, including the contraceptive pill.She advises patients to follow the guidance supplied with their contraceptive medication and seek professional advice if they have concerns. Additional protection may sometimes be recommended depending on individual circumstances.It's also important to remember that oral Wegovy should be taken at least 30 minutes before any other oral medication, including the contraceptive pill.Can I drink alcohol?For many people, this is the question they're most interested in. And while the good news is that alcohol does not appear to stop the medication from working, that doesn't necessarily mean you can fill your boots.Dr Grainger explains that alcohol can make some of the most common side effects of semaglutide feel worse. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, fatigue and diarrhoea may become more noticeable after drinking.There's also the fact that alcohol can increase appetite, make healthy food choices more difficult and contribute to low blood sugar levels in some people. Combined with the medication, this can sometimes leave patients feeling dizzy, weak or generally unwell.What if I forget to take a dose?Life gets busy, and missed doses happen. Dr Grainger says patients should always follow the instructions provided with their specific medication, as guidance can vary between different oral weight-loss treatments.For oral Wegovy specifically, however, the advice is straightforward: don't double up. If you miss a tablet, don't take two the next day and don't take the forgotten dose later when you remember. Instead, simply take your next scheduled dose as normal.Trying to make up for a missed tablet can increase the risk of side effects without offering any additional benefit.Can I take it alongside my other medication?This is one of the most important conversations patients should have with a medical professional before starting treatment.According to Dr Grainger, many medications can be taken alongside weight-loss treatment, but it's essential that prescribers know about everything a patient is taking, including prescription medicines, over-the-counter treatments and supplements.Some medicines may require monitoring, dose adjustments or careful timing. Particular attention may be needed for diabetes medications, blood thinners such as warfarin, levothyroxine, other GLP-1 medications and medicines that require close monitoring, including lithium, digoxin and ciclosporin.The bottom line? Don't assume medication is irrelevant. Always tell your prescriber exactly what you're taking before starting treatment. Like every boring person ever quite rightly says, it’s better to be safe than sorry.