Lean, also called “sizzurp” and “purple drank,” is a recreational drug among teens and young adults. The opiate-like concoction comprises prescription cough syrup, candy, or soda. Often, Lean also contains codeine or promethazine hydrochloride.
Despite growing use among specific populations, there are significant risks associated with this drug, including long-term health consequences. In this article, we will discuss what Lean is and its dangers.
By the end of this piece, we hope to answer the question “What is lean?” and explain other important information about this street drug.
What is Lean?
Lean is a dangerous and highly addictive street drug rapidly gaining popularity, particularly among people. The drug combines codeine cough syrup, soda, and candy – typically hard fruit-flavored candies.
Codeine is the primary ingredient, an opiate commonly used to treat pain or reduce coughing. When combined with soda and candy, the codeine has a sweet and fruity taste, making it easier to consume.
Why is Lean Commonly Abused?
Despite its illegal status and the numerous health risks associated with its consumption, lean continues to be widely abused. This can be attributed to the glorification of drug use in pop culture and the accessibility of the ingredients required to make it.
If searching for “What is lean?” got you here, you may wonder where Lean first emerged. The trend towards lean abuse began in the southern United States, particularly in urban areas, before spreading across the country.
Its popularity is a clear example of the dangers of glamorizing substance abuse and the need for more effective preventative measures.
What Are Common Effects From Lean?
The short-term effects of Lean can be both sedative and euphoric, contributing to its abuse potential. Users report feeling drowsy, relaxed and may sometimes experience hallucinations.
The mix of ingredients can also cause impaired vision, slurred speech, and impaired cognitive function. Furthermore, the cough syrup in Lean can be addictive, leading to withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches and nausea when a user tries to stop using it.
What Are Lean’s Long-Term Effects?
Despite its sweet taste and popularity in some music cultures, Lean is known to have serious long-term effects on the body.
Over time, frequent use of lean can cause liver damage, seizures, respiratory distress, and even death. The drug can also lead to addiction, with users experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit.
In addition to the physical dangers, lean can also impact a person’s relationships, career, and overall well-being.
Despite its risks, Lean continues to be a commonly abused drug, highlighting the need for education and awareness about the long-term effects of drug abuse.
What Are the Symptoms of Lean Withdrawal?
Symptoms of withdrawal from the street drug are associated with its opioid content. They may include depression, anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, tremors, diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, chills, sweating, joint pain, and intense cravings for more Lean. With heavy or prolonged use, withdrawal symptoms may be far more intense.
Some people have mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations after abruptly stopping their prolonged use of Lean. Severe medical complications can also arise due to organ damage if left untreated.
It is important to seek professional help when considering quitting any substance, as Lean withdrawal can be physically and mentally taxing to endure alone.
Wrapping Up: Be Aware of Lean’s Risks
Lean is an addictive substance, yet it still has a deeply entrenched culture among young people. If you or someone you know is addicted to Lean, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Both short and term use can result in serious physical and psychological health problems.
Education surrounding the dangers of using lean is critical for adults and children, helping create healthier futures for all. We hope we’ve answered the question “What is lean?”, and helped illuminate some critical information on this powerful drug.
