Are Blackouts Caused From Benzodiazepines?

06/24/2021

Are Blackouts Caused From Benzodiazepines?

How Blackouts Occur and How to Treat Them

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Many prescription medications belong to a drug group called Benzodiazepines (or ‘benzos,’ when abbreviated). Drugs such as Xanax, Klonopin, Valium, Halcion, and related prescription medications fit in this category. Benzodiazepines are designed to treat a wide range of conditions including insomnia, seizures, and anxiety. They work by altering the neurons that trigger stress and anxiety to relax the mind & body. While short-term Benzodiazepine use (2-3 weeks) is considered safe, long-term use can result in lasting complications.

Effects of Benzodiazepines

Benzos may cause a variety of symptoms that could range anywhere between mild and severe. Side effects of Benzodiazepines may include:

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Confusion
Memory problems
Depression
Increased anxiety
Behavioral changes

Additionally, Benzos come with a higher risk of dependence and abuse than most prescription medications. This means that individuals who use Benzodiazepines for an extended period of time may experience issues like overdose, withdrawal, and blackouts.

What Is “Blacking Out?”

A blackout is a temporary condition triggered by substance use or intoxication that affects one’s memory. It is typically characterized by a sense of lost or missing time. Someone who is blacking out will be unable to form new memories while they are intoxicated. They will likely not remember the events that occurred during the blackout after the event, either. If someone only experiences a partial blackout, they may eventually gain memory back. If they had a complete blackout, however, they may not ever be able to recollect their memories or understand their behavior from when they were blacked out.

Causes of Blackouts

Blackouts are typically associated with the consumption of alcohol. When someone’s alcohol levels are too high or they drink too quickly on an empty stomach, they may begin to black out and lose their memories.

Individuals who take a high dosage of Benzos may experience blackouts as well. The effects of a blackout from alcohol are similar to those of a blackout from Benzodiazepines. Blackouts usually occur after someone uses large amounts of fast-onset, short-acting Benzos. Benzodiazepines such as Xanax and Valium can cause blackouts that may have unpredictable and possibly dangerous results. The higher someone’s tolerance is for these drugs, the higher their risk of blacking out.

Blacking Out From Benzodiazepines: What Happens

When someone blacks out after using Benzodiazepines, they will likely lose memory of their activities. Amnesia may last anywhere from a couple of seconds to a few days. Someone who is blacked out could complete tasks such as eating, having a conversation, or even driving without having any recollection of it .

Someone who blacks out from Benzodiazepine use may also experience:

Impaired judgement
Distraction
Forgetfulness
Repetition
Lack of awareness
Lack of concern
Explicable actions
Uncharacteristic behavior

Blacking out could lead to injuries and accidents, so it is important for someone who is going through a blackout to receive medical attention immediately.

Maintaining and Treating Blackouts

If someone is experiencing a blackout from Benzodiazepines, they will probably need to detox from the drug they are using at a medical center or in a rehab facility. Withdrawal is very likely, so it’s important that the person who is recovering can detox in a comfortable and drug-free environment. Detox can be an unpleasant experience, but can be more healthy and tolerable when treated properly.

Using Benzodiazepines Responsibly

If you use Benzodiazepines, the best way to prevent blackout is to use them responsibly and according to dosage. Tell your doctor about all other medications you use and do not use Benzodiazepines for longer than prescribed. If you are experiencing negative side effects from Benzodiazepines, it may be time for you to consider alternative options.

To learn more about the effects of blacking out from Benzodiazepines, contact our team of substance abuse and treatment specialists by calling 267.209.7313.