Former Trump adviser Elon Musk condemned allegations that he used drugs extensively last year.
The New York Times published a report on Friday claiming that Musk took ketamine so frequently that it affected his bladder. Musk’s drug consumption “went well beyond occasional use,” and he was using drugs “far more intensely than previously known,” the outlet alleged, citing people “familiar with his activities.” As he helped President Donald Trump campaign for reelection, Musk allegedly also took ecstasy, psychedelic mushrooms, and traveled with a daily medication box that held about 20 pills, including ones appearing to be Adderall, the outlet reported, again citing anonymous sources.
Musk responded to the allegations in a social media post in which he accused the New York Times of “lying their ass off.”
“I tried *prescription* ketamine a few years ago and said so on X, so this not even news,” he said in a statement on X, his social media platform. “It helps for getting out of dark mental holes, but haven’t taken it since then.”
Also, to be clear, I am NOT taking drugs! The New York Times was lying their ass off.
I tried *prescription* ketamine a few years ago and said so on 𝕏, so this not even news. It helps for getting out of dark mental holes, but haven’t taken it since then.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 31, 2025
Musk’s rebuttal came after he slammed the charges during a press conference on Friday alongside Trump.
“Is that the same publication that got a Pulitzer Prize for false reporting on Russiagate? I think it is!” Musk said, looking at Trump, who agreed.
“That New York Times?” Musk concluded. “Let’s move on.”
Critics have also pointed to a video taken in March showing him playing with silverware during dinner that they say indicates erratic behavior spurred by drug use.
Musk referenced the video on Saturday, saying, “I’m not on ketamine ffs.”
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Last week, Trump said he was not aware that Musk took any drugs during the 2024 campaign. He deflected criticism of the Department of Government Efficiency’s departing leader, praising Musk for his work scrutinizing federal agencies for waste and fraud.
“I’m not troubled by anything with Elon,” the president told reporters at the Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. “I think he’s fantastic. Did a great job. And, you know, DOGE continues. And by the time he’s finished, we’ll have numbers that’ll knock your socks off.”