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Most of the time, the death is caused by respiratory depression. Opiates (pain killers) cause central nervous system (CNS) depression, which, if depressed enough, starts to shut down the respiratory center within the brain stem = you stop breathing.
GABA agonists (Ambien, benzodiazepines and other sedating meds) cause CNS depression as well. But some, like benzos, also have skeletal muscle relaxant properties as well that can cause the diaphragm (a skeletal muscle), and other breathing muscles, to be unable to contract enough to properly move air in and out of the lungs.
Another problem is not overdose per se, but a combination of prescription medications and alcohol. The issue is alcohol is a CNS depressant as well. When you combine alcohol with opiates and/or sedatives, you amplify the risk of respiratory depression.
I hope this answers your question.
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∙ 6y ago
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