Tesla Inc (Nasdaq: TSLA) CEO Elon Musk believes that his prescribed use of ketamine is in the best interest of investors. This was one of the things he told ousted CNN anchor Don Lemon during the tense interview of the abruptly-canceled X program “The Don Lemon Show” (read our explainer on that cancelation here).
In the episode, which premiered on YouTube on Monday, Musk says that for investors, “what matters is execution,” and thus, if there’s something he’s taking to — err — execute, which in this case is ketamine, “I should keep taking it,” referring to Tesla’s performance.
Also read: Hertz Replaces CEO After Failed Tesla Bet
Ketamine is a drug that can be legally prescribed by doctors to treat pain and depression. When used at higher doses, it can act as a sedative and potentially cause hallucinations or unconsciousness. Musk did not provide specifics on his prescription or dosage.
This disclosure comes after a Wall Street Journal article in January reported concerns among executives at his companies about Musk’s recreational drug use. Musk denied failing any drug tests and insisted he should “obviously keep doing it!”
While ketamine can be infused in medical settings or taken as a nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, its use by high-profile figures like Musk has raised eyebrows. Musk’s openness about his ketamine use has sparked discussions around the use of such medications by executives and their potential impact on business operations.
Apart from Tesla, Musk also runs X, the social media platform formerly called Twitter; Neuralink, the brain implant company that had just started human trials; and the government-contracting space exploration company SpaceX, which also owns and operates the worldwide satellite internet company Starlink.
Information for this story was found via Bloomberg, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
