Purple Drank, also known as lean or sizzurp, is a recreational drug drink made by mixing prescription-strength cough syrup (often containing codeine and promethazine) with a soft drink, typically soda (such as Sprite or Mountain Dew), and sometimes a piece of hard candy like Jolly Ranchers. This concoction became popular in the Southern United States, particularly within hip-hop culture, and has been referenced in various songs and media.
Key Ingredients in Purple Drank:
- Codeine: An opioid painkiller and cough suppressant. In purple drank, codeine is used for its sedative and euphoric effects. It is a controlled substance, meaning it is only legally available with a prescription.
- Promethazine: An antihistamine that is used to treat allergies, nausea, and insomnia. It also has sedative effects, contributing to the overall relaxing and drowsy effects of purple drank.
- Soda: The soda, often a sugary citrus flavor like Sprite or Fanta, masks the unpleasant taste of the cough syrup and makes the drink more palatable.
- Candy: Hard candy, like Jolly Ranchers, is sometimes added to enhance the flavor of the drink and make it sweeter.
Effects of Purple Drank:
- Sedation: Purple drank’s is known for its calming and relaxing effects, which can range from mild drowsiness to extreme sedation in high doses. People typically drink it to experience a sense of euphoria and a “floaty” feeling.
- Pain Relief: Due to the presence of codeine, purple drank can have mild pain-relieving properties, though it is not intended for recreational use.
- Euphoria: Many users report feeling a sense of well-being and euphoria, though this effect can be dangerous due to the risk of overdose.
- Dizziness and Impairment: The drink can impair motor coordination and mental clarity, making tasks that require concentration, such as driving, dangerous while under the influence.
Health Risks:
Purple drank can be dangerous and addictive due to the presence of codeine, an opioid, which carries risks of overdose, respiratory depression, and addiction. The use of purple drank in excessive amounts can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Respiratory issues: Overuse of codeine can depress the respiratory system, leading to difficulty breathing.
- Addiction: Prolonged use of opioids can lead to dependency and addiction.
- Overdose: Drinking large quantities of purple drank can result in a fatal overdose, especially when combined with other substances such as alcohol or other drugs.
- Liver damage: Excessive consumption of acetaminophen (sometimes found in cough syrups) can cause liver damage.
- Impaired Judgment: The sedative effects can lead to impaired judgment, resulting in risky behavior, accidents, or injury.
Legal Issues:
The key ingredients in purple drank, especially codeine and promethazine, are controlled substances in many countries. Codeine is classified as a Schedule II or III drug in places like the United States, meaning it is illegal to possess without a prescription. Misusing prescription medications like these is illegal and can result in serious legal consequences.
Conclusion:
While purple drank gained notoriety in pop culture, it carries significant health risks, especially due to the opioid component. It is important to recognize the dangers of using prescription medication recreationally, as it can lead to addiction, overdose, and long-term health problems. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, seeking professional help is essential for recovery.