A university student took his own life after experiencing suicidal thoughts triggered by a common hair loss medication, an inquest has heard. Oliver Fawkes, 21, was found dead in woodland near his family home in Norfolk on November 25, 2025.
Inquest findings
At Norfolk Coroner's Court, coroner Maeve Skyes recorded a verdict of suicide by hanging, concluding that the drug finasteride contributed to his mental state. Mr Fawkes, of Common Road in West Bilney, had been struggling with seborrhoeic dermatitis, a condition causing dry skin and subsequent hair loss. He was initially prescribed topical treatments by his GP but, dissatisfied with the results, sought alternatives online.
He turned to Manual, a digital healthcare provider operated by parent company Menwell. After completing screenings in July 2024, he ordered oral minoxidil pills and began taking finasteride in October 2024. Finasteride is known to carry a rare risk of suicidal ideation and depression, with warnings on the website and leaflets urging patients to stop if such symptoms occur.
Continued use despite risks
Despite these warnings, Mr Fawkes continued the medication, placing his last order for a six-month supply on October 6, 2025, just weeks before his death. His mother described him as a "unique person" who excelled academically, achieving high grades in science and pursuing an integrated master's degree in computer science at the University of East Anglia. She noted he had been offered a PhD opportunity, adding, "It is with great sadness that we will collect on his behalf a first-class degree in summer 2026."
Final day
On November 24, 2025, Mr Fawkes's mother was visiting her daughter at the University of York, and his father was away for work, leaving him at home with his brother. Communication was normal, with texts exchanged throughout the day. Around 3pm, he told his brother he was going for a walk to watch the sunset and never returned. Concern grew as darkness fell, and a search of the area proved fruitless. His mother, stranded in Yorkshire due to thick fog, was unable to return home. The next morning, a neighbour discovered his body in nearby woodland during a dog walk. Police and paramedics arrived at 8.15pm, and he was pronounced dead.
Regulatory action
The chief medical officer of Menwell stated that Mr Fawkes had not reported any side effects or mental health issues while taking the medication. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has reviewed evidence on finasteride and recommended stronger warnings. From 1994 to May 31, 2025, there were 19 suicides and 170 reports of suicidal thoughts linked to the drug. The agency is updating product information to highlight these risks.
If you are affected by any issues raised in this article, Samaritans are available 24/7 in the UK and Ireland on 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org.
