Many drugs are known to cause blackouts.[4] Here are some of the most common.
Alcohol: Alcohol use directly affects the hippocampus and interferes with your brain’s ability to form new memories. Binge drinking, consuming large amounts of alcohol quickly, and drinking on an empty stomach can greatly increase the likelihood of experiencing an alcohol-induced blackout.
Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines can cause memory impairment and blackouts. The likelihood of a blackout goes up considerably when a benzodiazepine is taken in higher doses or mixed with alcohol.
Barbiturates: Central nervous system depressants like phenobarbital and secobarbital can cause severe sedation and memory impairment. This can lead to blackouts.
Gamma-Hydroxybutyric acid: GHB is a central nervous system depressant that can cause blackouts and memory loss, especially when taken in higher doses or combined with heavy drinking.
Inhalants: Substances like solvents, aerosols, and gasses can cause blackouts and memory loss when inhaled due to their negative effects on your central nervous system.
Cannabis (or THC): While cannabis does not cause blackouts like alcohol or benzodiazepines, high doses of THC can impair short-term memory and lead to poor memory formation during intoxication.