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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Andrew Smart

Does controversial Tesla CEO Elon Musk take ketamine? All we know

Controversial Tesla boss Elon Musk has made headlines around the globe over his close relationship with the American president and endorsement of far-right movements across Europe.

The CEO has been mired in controversy for months now, an issue that was only made worse when he made what appeared to be a Nazi salute at Trump's inauguration in January.

His erratic behaviour has prompted many to theorise that the Twitter (now known as X) owner has made regular, long-term use of ketamine or another substance.

Does Elon Musk use ketamine? All we know

Elon Musk has also weighed in on UK politics, making the bold claim that the UK is on the brink of a 'civil war'Elon Musk has weighed in on British politics, making the bold claim that the UK is on the brink of a 'civil war' (Image: Stuart Mitchell/Reform UK/PA Wire) In March of last year, Elon Musk shared that he takes ketamine to help treat depression and claimed to have a doctor's "off-label" prescription for the drug.

In the interview with CNN, the billionaire advocated for the use of ketamine as a treatment for mood disorders over more traditional courses of action.

According to Snopes, when he was asked about his use of the substance, he said: "There are times when I have sort of, I don't know, like a negative chemical state in my [...] brain.

"Like depression, I guess, you know — or like depression that's not linked to any negative news. And then ketamine is helpful for getting you — getting one outside, out of a negative frame of mind."

Elon Musk has admitted to making use of ketamine Elon Musk has admitted to the use of ketamine (Image: Kirsty Wigglesworth/PA Wire) The Tesla CEO added: "Obviously, I'm not a doctor, but I would say, if someone has depression issues, they should consider talking to their doctor about ketamine instead of SSRIs."

How often he uses this substance in 2025 is unclear but Musk and his attorney have said he is required to take routine drug tests for his various jobs.


Recommended Reading: 

Why are anti-Elon Musk posters appearing all over the London Tube?

Global Tesla protests reach UK as 20 cars smashed in Belfast

How much have Tesla sales dropped around the globe after Elon Musk's salute?


How much money has Elon Musk lost since Donald Trump became President?

According to CBC, the billionaire has lost $126 billion (around £97bn) of his personal wealth this year.

Recently, Musk lost $26bn dollars in a single day after shares in Tesla dipped by 15%, the worst since September 2020 when the firm saw a 21% drop.

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