Final answer:
Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, are another class of drugs involved in opioid deaths due to their depressant effects which, when combined with opioids, increase overdose risks. (option 1)
Step-by-step explanation:
Another class of prescription drugs involved in opioid deaths is benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax (alprazolam), are central nervous system depressants that are prescribed to relieve anxiety, induce sleep, and prevent seizures among other uses.
However, when they are taken in combination with prescription opioids, the risk of potentially fatal overdose increases significantly due to their combined depressant effects on the central nervous system. This dangerous combination has contributed to the overall opioid crisis, with misuse of drugs like Vicodin and Oxycontin leading to addiction and, in some cases, progression to illegal and highly potent opioids like heroin and fentanyl.
Hence, the answer is option 1