Context:

Renewed attention has focused on ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, following reports of Elon Musk's drug use, which include ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin mushrooms, during his campaign trail. Despite Musk's denial of ongoing drug use, the situation has sparked a public feud with President Trump, who has linked Musk's erratic behavior to drugs. Ketamine, developed as a battlefield anesthetic, is increasingly used for treatment-resistant depression, though its psychiatric use remains largely unregulated. While ketamine is considered safe when used in clinical settings as per FDA guidelines, it poses risks of abuse, cognitive impairment, and serious health issues when misused. The drug has gained notoriety after high-profile incidents, including the death of actor Matthew Perry, attributed to an overdose of ketamine.

Dive Deeper:

• Elon Musk's use of ketamine, along with MDMA and psilocybin mushrooms, has reignited discussions on the powerful anesthetic's role in treating mental health issues like depression. Despite acknowledging past use for depression, Musk denies current drug use amid allegations of regular consumption during his campaign.

• A public dispute between Musk and President Trump, fueled by social media exchanges, has drawn attention to Musk's behavior and alleged drug use, with Trump suggesting a link to Musk's 'crazy' actions. However, Trump later refrained from commenting on Musk's drug use directly.

• Ketamine, initially developed in the 1960s as a battlefield anesthetic, has been legal since 1970 and is used for both humans and animals. Its psychiatric use for depression, suicidal ideation, and chronic pain is largely unregulated, raising concerns about potential abuse.

• Clinical use of esketamine, a derivative of ketamine approved by the FDA in 2019, is considered safe when administered in controlled settings. Experts warn that recreational or unsupervised use, particularly of compounded ketamine, can lead to dangerous health outcomes, including cognitive impairment and urinary tract issues.

• Ketamine-related risks became prominent after actor Matthew Perry's death in 2023, caused by an overdose. Reports suggest Musk may have used ketamine extensively, affecting his health and behavior, while chronic use is linked to bladder problems, highlighting the need for cautious use of the drug.