A university student has taken his own life after a widely prescribed hair loss medication triggered suicidal thoughts, an inquest has heard. Oliver Fawkes, 21, was discovered deceased near his family home on 25 November 2025, following a period of severe mental distress.
Coroner's Conclusion
During proceedings at Norfolk Coroner's Court, Area Coroner Maeve Sykes formally concluded that Mr Fawkes' death was a suicide resulting from side effects of prescribed medication. He had been suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis, a condition causing dry skin and subsequent hair loss, for several years.
While his GP initially provided topical treatments, Mr Fawkes felt "dissatisfied" with the results and sought alternative remedies. His search led him to Manual, a digital healthcare provider operated by parent company Menwell.
Medication History
In July 2024, after completing online screenings, he ordered his first set of oral minoxidil pills. By October 2024, he began taking finasteride. Although side effects including suicidal ideation and depression are considered rare, patients are urged to stop the medication if they experience such symptoms.
Despite warnings, Mr Fawkes continued his prescription, placing his last order for a six-month supply on 6 October 2025, just over a month before his death.
Family's Account
His mother described him as a "unique person." He achieved high grades in science throughout school and college, eventually starting an integrated master's degree in computer science at the University of East Anglia in Norwich. He had even been offered the chance to complete a PhD in 2026.
"It was obvious to all that Ollie enjoyed and excelled at his studies, and we looked forward to supporting him on his journey in any way we could," she said. "It is with great sadness that we will collect on his behalf a first-class degree in summer 2026."
Final Day
On the day before his death, Mr Fawkes' mother was visiting her daughter at the University of York, and his father was away for work, leaving only him and his brother at home. Communication appeared normal, with texts exchanged throughout the day.
At around 3pm, Mr Fawkes told his brother he was heading out for a walk to watch the sunset. He never returned. His brother grew increasingly worried and spent the evening searching the area and asking neighbours, but found no trace. His mother, still in Yorkshire, was unable to drive home due to thick fog.
"I was feeling sick and unwell by now," she said.
The next morning, a neighbour discovered his body while walking her dog. Police and paramedics arrived at 8.15am, and he was pronounced dead.
Regulatory Response
The chief medical officer of Menwell stated that Mr Fawkes did not report any side effects or mental health issues while taking the medication. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has since reviewed evidence for finasteride and recommended further measures to minimise the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
From 1994 to 31 May 2025, there were 19 suicides related to the medication and 170 reports of suicidal thoughts as a side effect. The agency will update product information and warnings.
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org. For other countries, go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
