A 21-year-old student took his own life after experiencing suicidal thoughts linked to a hair loss medication, an inquest has heard. Oliver Fawkes was found dead near his family home in Norfolk on 25 November 2025, following a period of severe mental distress.
Norfolk Coroner Maeve Sykes concluded that Mr Fawkes died by suicide due to side effects of prescribed medication. He had been using oral minoxidil and finasteride, purchased from the online healthcare provider Manual, to treat seborrhoeic dermatitis and hair loss. Finasteride is known to carry a rare risk of suicidal ideation and depression.
Mr Fawkes began taking finasteride in October 2024 and continued despite warnings to stop if such symptoms occurred. His last order was a six-month supply on 6 October 2025. On the day of his death, he told his brother he was going for a walk to watch the sunset and never returned. His body was discovered the next morning by a neighbour.
His mother described him as a “unique person” who excelled academically, achieving high grades in science and studying for a master’s degree in computer science at the University of East Anglia. He had been offered a PhD place for 2026.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reviewed evidence for finasteride and found 19 suicides and 170 reports of suicidal thoughts linked to the drug between 1994 and May 2025. The agency has recommended updates to product information and warnings.
If you are struggling with feelings of distress, you can contact the Samaritans in confidence on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or email jo@samaritans.org.
