Lean, also known as Purple Drank, Sizzurp, or Dirty Sprite, is a recreational drug drink that originated in the Southern United States. It’s made by mixing prescription cough syrup with a soft drink, often with added candy like Jolly Ranchers for flavor. The cough syrup usually contains codeine, an opioid, and promethazine, an antihistamine.
Key Components of Lean
- Prescription Cough Syrup:
- Codeine: A mild opioid that provides sedative and euphoric effects.
- Promethazine: An antihistamine with sedative properties, often used to treat nausea and allergies.
- Soft Drink:
- Commonly a sweet soda like Sprite or Mountain Dew, used to dilute the syrup.
- Candy (Optional):
- Hard candies such as Jolly Ranchers are often added for extra sweetness and flavor.
Effects of Lean
- Euphoria: The codeine creates feelings of relaxation and pleasure.
- Sedation: Both codeine and promethazine contribute to a drowsy, calming effect.
- Altered Perception: Some users report a sense of detachment or slowed cognition.
Risks and Dangers
Lean carries significant risks, especially with prolonged or excessive use:
- Addiction: Codeine is an opioid, which can lead to physical dependency and addiction.
- Respiratory Depression: High doses of codeine can slow or stop breathing, which is life-threatening.
- Liver Damage: Some formulations include acetaminophen, which can harm the liver if taken in excess.
- Overdose: Combining lean with other depressants (like alcohol or benzodiazepines) increases the risk of overdose, which can result in coma or death.
Cultural References
Lean gained popularity in the hip-hop community, particularly in the Southern U.S., and has been referenced in music by artists like DJ Screw, Lil Wayne, and Future. Its prominence in pop culture has contributed to its recreational use but also brought attention to its dangers.
Legal and Social Implications
- Legal Status: Codeine-containing cough syrups are prescription-only in most countries. Using them recreationally without a prescription is illegal.
- Health Concerns: Authorities and health professionals warn against the misuse of lean due to its high potential for addiction and life-threatening side effects.
Lean should not be consumed outside of its intended medical use.
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