Elon Musk recently opened up about his occasional use of prescription ketamine to help with his depressive episodes. In an interview with former CNN anchor Don Lemon, Musk revealed that he takes a small amount of ketamine once every other week to manage what he referred to as “chemical tides” that can trigger his depression. Musk claims that ketamine has been beneficial in getting him out of a negative frame of mind, providing relief from his symptoms.
Despite Musk’s assertion that ketamine has been helpful for him, there has been no shortage of criticism and concerns surrounding his use of the drug. Some Tesla and SpaceX executives have expressed worries about the impact of Musk’s drug use on his ability to work effectively. In the interview, Lemon questioned Musk about the potential implications of his ketamine use on his government contracts and reputation on Wall Street. Musk defended himself by emphasizing the importance of execution and value creation for investors.
Musk’s disclosure about his use of ketamine has sparked public debate, especially given his previous negative comments about other antidepressant medications. In 2022, Musk called for the removal of the prescription antidepressant Wellbutrin from the market, drawing criticism from healthcare professionals who vouched for the drug’s efficacy and safety. The contrast between Musk’s stance on different antidepressants has raised questions about his motives and beliefs regarding mental health treatment.
In recent years, ketamine has gained recognition as a potential alternative therapy for individuals with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. As a potent anesthetic, ketamine has shown promise in providing relief for treatment-resistant depression. However, the drug’s association with adverse effects, such as the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry, underscores the need for cautious use and monitoring.
The fallout from Musk’s interview with Lemon extended beyond his personal choices. X’s decision to cancel the deal for Musk’s talk show raised eyebrows and led to widespread speculation about the reasons behind the abrupt decision. Musk’s attempt to promote free speech on the platform clashed with X’s decision to distance itself from the controversial figure, highlighting the delicate balance between creative freedom and corporate responsibility.
Elon Musk’s candidness about his use of prescription ketamine has ignited a larger conversation about mental health, drug treatment, and the responsibilities of public figures. While Musk’s endorsement of ketamine may have raised eyebrows, it also serves as a reminder of the complex and evolving nature of mental health care. As society grapples with the stigma surrounding mental illness and treatment, Musk’s journey with ketamine sheds light on the intersection of personal struggles and public scrutiny.
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