Lean, also known as purple drank or sizzurp, is a recreational drug made by combining prescription-strength cough syrup (containing codeine and promethazine) with a soft drink, typically soda. The legality of lean depends on the substances used to make it, as well as the laws in different regions.

Legality of Lean:

1. Prescription Requirements:
   • The cough syrup used to make lean contains codeine, an opioid, and promethazine, an antihistamine. In most countries, both of these substances are controlled and only available with a prescription.
   • Codeine is classified as a controlled substance in many regions because of its potential for abuse and addiction. Therefore, possessing or distributing codeine-containing cough syrup without a prescription is illegal in most places.
2. Possession Without Prescription:
   • If you do not have a prescription for the cough syrup containing codeine and promethazine, possessing or using it to make lean is illegal.
   • In some places, possessing any amount of codeine or promethazine without a prescription can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines or imprisonment.
3. Misuse and Health Risks:
   • Lean is associated with serious health risks, especially due to the opioid content (codeine), which can lead to respiratory depression, overdose, or even death when abused.
   • The combination of a depressant (codeine) with alcohol or other drugs can be particularly dangerous.
4. Legal Status in Specific Regions:
   • United States: Lean is illegal without a prescription, as both codeine and promethazine are controlled substances. The DEA and other law enforcement agencies monitor and regulate these substances strictly.
   • Canada: Similarly, codeine is a controlled substance, and possessing it without a prescription is illegal.
   • Other countries: The legal status of lean varies depending on the country’s drug laws, but in most places, cough syrup containing codeine is regulated and requires a prescription.

Summary:

Lean, made with prescription-strength codeine cough syrup, is illegal to possess or use without a prescription in most countries. Misuse of lean can result in serious legal and health consequences. Always be cautious about using any substances that contain controlled ingredients, and ensure you are following the law and health guidelines in your region.