Which of the following substances can slow breathing and lead to death?

• A. Cannabis
• B. Depressants
• C. Opioids and depressants
• D. Opioids and stimulants

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the effects of each substance listed in the problem. For example, opioids and depressants are known to affect the central nervous system, potentially slowing breathing.
2. Review the definitions of opioids and depressants. Opioids are substances that act on opioid receptors to produce pain relief and sedation, while depressants slow down brain activity and can reduce respiratory function.
3. Consider the physiological impact of slowed breathing. Both opioids and depressants can suppress the respiratory centers in the brain, leading to hypoventilation or even respiratory arrest in severe cases.
4. Eliminate options that do not align with the described effects. For instance, stimulants typically increase breathing rate, and cannabis does not usually cause significant respiratory depression.
5. Conclude that the substances most likely to slow breathing and potentially lead to death are opioids and depressants, based on their pharmacological effects on the central nervous system.