Elon Musk has responded strongly to a report by The New York Times claiming he used large amounts of ketamine and other drugs during the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign. The report, published on May 30, said Musk’s drug use included ketamine, ecstasy, and psychedelic mushrooms — and even caused bladder problems.
According to the report, Musk — who served as an adviser to Donald Trump during his campaign and later led the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) — was often seen with a pill box throughout last year. However, the report didn’t confirm whether he used drugs while holding the government position after Trump’s inauguration in January.
Musk took to his platform, X (formerly Twitter), on May 31 to deny the claims. “To be clear, I am NOT taking drugs! The New York Times was lying their ass off,” he posted.
He did admit that he had tried prescription ketamine in the past and had spoken openly about it. “I tried ‘prescription’ ketamine a few years ago and said so on X, so this is not even news. It helps for getting out of dark mental holes, but haven’t taken it since then,” Musk explained.
The report came just as Musk made his final appearance at the White House, marking the end of his time at DOGE. He showed up with a black eye, which sparked more speculation. Musk said it happened while playing roughly with his five-year-old son, X.
The article also brought up earlier controversies, including Musk’s unusual salute at Trump’s January 2025 inauguration — a gesture some critics said resembled a Nazi salute.
When asked about the drug use claims, Trump responded, “I wasn’t \[aware]. I think Elon is a fantastic guy.”
Musk has previously said that responsible use of certain substances had helped his mental health and creativity, but insists he is not currently using drugs.
