Lean, purple drank, sizzurp. Whatever you want to call the concoction that has become a hot trend in recent times, there is no question that it is one of the most dangerous drinks currently around.
What exactly is “lean”?
Sizzurp has actually existed for decades but has gained popularity as a result of glamorization in rap songs and other forms of pop culture. It is commonly made with prescription cough syrup, soda, and candies.
Because the ingredients are technically legal, many people assume it is safe. However, the Drug Enforcement Administration classifies codeine as a Schedule II controlled substance because it has the potential to be potent and dangerous. The presence of promethazine and DMX delivers further cause for concern.
The recreational drug promises to deliver an “out of body” experience, which can be very addictive and dangerous. In fact, due to the high quantities that it is often consumed in, the impacts are akin to the addiction that heroin users experience.
Even on its own, purple drank is potentially extremely dangerous. However, mixing it with other substances can lead to even worse problems.
What are the dangers of mixing purple drank with other ingredients?
Drinking lean, even as a sole drug, can cause a wide range of side effects. Not least because a lot of new users will not know how to control dosages as it is drunk fast. By the time the effects take their toll, users will be at risk of various side effects including;
- Memory problems,
- Dizziness and headaches,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Blurred vision.
However, the dangers become far greater when other drugs are used. The mixture of codeine and promethazine can cause hallucinatory effects that do not peak until two hours after consumption. If taken with any other drugs, including cannabis and prescription drugs, the effects can be worsened leading to paranoia and a host of other immediate mental health issues.
Given that “lean” is regularly used at parties, it is often consumed alongside alcohol. As well as the standard side effects of alcohol, this can put you at risk of drowsiness, delayed reactions, and breathing troubles. In severe cases, it can lead to death.
Why you must avoid using “lean” now
The short-term effects of purple drink consumption are clear. In fact, as per medicalnewstoday.com, over 68% of all drug overdose deaths include opioids like codeine. However, the immediate risks aren’t the only issues to consider.
Using lean on a regular basis also poses the following risks;
- Obesity,
- Oral health problems,
- Moving onto stronger drugs,
- Seizures,
- Irregular heartbeats,
- Liver damage,
- Mental health issues.
Furthermore, a purple drink’s addictive nature will mean that getting clean endures a host of withdrawal symptoms ranging from sweating and shaking to irritability and insomnia. There is no doubt that prevention is the best form of protection for anyone that is thinking about drinking “lean” for the first time. Meanwhile, for those that have recently tried it, now is the time to stop.
Count yourself lucky that you tried it without experiencing the potential life-changing or life-ending consequences.