Computer Science student died after taking antidepressant
He was nervous about his exams
Connie FredricksonA final year has died after taking Etizolam – an antidepressant he bought online.
Computer Science student David Connell was on track to receive a first, and only took the drug to calm his nerves before his exams.
The 21-year-old was last seen on May 5 2014 before being found by his housemates in his room.
David, who’s originally from Liverpool and lived on Wellesley Avenue, took the antidepressant Etizolam which cannot be legally bought in the UK.
David was originally from Liverpool
Effects include calming the respiratory system but too much can lead to organ failure. It’s commonly used in India and Japan but is widely banned for human consumption across Europe.
Investigator PC Nicholas Munday said: “I found a small clear zip-lock bag with the writing ‘Etizolam: Reagent only not for human consumption’.
“I called to ask what the drug was, and the response stated that it cannot be legally purchased in the UK, but is in use in eastern countries, where it is used for anxiety and insomnia.
“In the UK, it is classed to be one of the drugs that fall into the category of legal high.”
Police warned students to be vigilant when buying drugs online and always check with their doctor if unsure. No criminal action can be taken against the suppliers of the drug.
The coroner, Professor Paul Marks, told the court David had underestimated the power of Etizolam. The drug is 10 times more powerful than diazepam.
Wellesley Avenue is where David lived
The coroner also told David’s parents his death was an “enigma”, adding: “You have lost a brilliant son who was destined to have first- class honours at one of the top universities in the country. This is a tragic and very sad case.”
A verdict of misadventure was recorded.