In a candid interview with former CNN anchor Don Lemon, Tesla CEO Elon Musk defended his use of ketamine, asserting that it was beneficial for Tesla’s investors.

The video interview, posted online on Monday, delved into various topics, including politics, content moderation on Musk’s social media platform, X, and the operations of Tesla.

Elon Musk on tweeting and ketamine use on #TheDonLemonShow episode 1.

Full interview: https://t.co/0fZh9smJUQ pic.twitter.com/rrijY4vyyi

— Don Lemon (@donlemon) March 18, 2024

Musk, who later canceled a partnership with Lemon, cited the drug’s role in managing a “negative chemical state” akin to depression. He emphasized that consistent performance and execution were paramount for investors, regardless of personal methods employed to maintain productivity.

“For investors, if there’s something I’m taking, I should keep taking it,” Musk remarked, highlighting the significance of maintaining stability and focus in the business realm.

Drug use

The interview comes amidst reports from The Wall Street Journal earlier this year, which alleged Musk’s past use of drugs such as LSD, cocaine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms, sparking concerns among executives and board members of his companies.

These revelations raised worries about potential violations of federal policies that could endanger SpaceX’s government contracts.

Responding to the Journal’s report, Musk stated that he had consented to three years of random drug testing at the behest of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), SpaceX’s partner.

No drugs or alcohol

He affirmed that no traces of drugs or alcohol were found in the tests.

Regarding his ketamine use, Musk disclosed that he possessed a doctor’s prescription for the drug and estimated consuming “a small amount every other week.”

Lemon questioned the purpose of Musk’s ketamine prescription and whether it might affect his government contracts and Wall Street standing. Musk’s assertion of its benefits for managing his mental state served as his response.

The interview, initially intended for Lemon’s show on Musk’s social media platform, X, was later posted on YouTube and X after Musk terminated the exclusive partnership.

Musk justified the cancellation by expressing dissatisfaction with Lemon’s approach, likening it to traditional CNN programming.

Despite requests for comment, Musk remained silent on the matter, leaving his remarks in the interview to speak for themselves.