Blackouts caused by alcohol or drug use

A blackout is the loss of the ability to remember what happened when you were drinking or using drugs. Blackouts are not the same as passing out. Passing out refers to a temporary loss of consciousness. You do not lose consciousness when you have a drug or alcohol blackout; you lose the short-term memories required to remember the event. A blackout is a type of amnesia.

You might be able to function effectively during a blackout. You might be able to do all the things that you normally do while you are drinking but then have no memory of doing so. Other people around you might think that you are functioning normally during a blackout.

Many people who experience blackouts are unconcerned by them. They might remember feeling good but be unable to remember what they did. This is called euphoric recall. Other people find blackouts very disturbing and seek treatment because of them.

Blackouts might also be present with loss of consciousness. This can be caused by the effects of the alcohol or drugs, a head injury from a fall when you were drunk or high, or a seizure. You probably will not remember hurting yourself or having a seizure.

If you think you have blackouts, do not drive or operate any kind of machinery. Talk to your doctor about your blackouts. You might need to be tested for other problems that can cause loss of consciousness.