What Is Lean? Purple Drank Addiction and Abuse

What Is Lean or Purple Drank?

Lean, also known as Purple Drank, is a recreational drug concoction that has gained notoriety in recent years. It is typically made by combining prescription-strength cough syrup, codeine, and promethazine with soda and sometimes adding a hard candy like Jolly Ranchers for flavor. The resulting liquid is usually purple, called “Purple Drank.”

The key ingredients in Lean contribute to its effects. Codeine, an opioid medication, acts as a central nervous system depressant, providing a sedative and analgesic (pain-relieving) effect. Promethazine, an antihistamine, enhances the sedative properties of codeine and also acts as a mild tranquilizer.

Lean gained popularity through its association with hip-hop culture, references in music lyrics, and its use by high-profile celebrities. It is often glamorized in media, contributing to its appeal among young adults.

Lean produces various effects, including relaxation, euphoria, and a sense of detachment from reality when consumed. It can also induce drowsiness, slowed breathing, and impaired coordination. Due to its sedative properties, Lean is often used recreationally for its calming and numbing effects.

However, Lean poses serious risks and dangers. Its misuse or abuse can lead to addiction, respiratory depression, organ damage, and overdose. The codeine present in Lean is an opioid, which means it carries a high risk of dependence and addiction, especially when used regularly or in large quantities.

Furthermore, Lean can interact negatively with other substances, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, amplifying their depressant effects and increasing the risk of dangerous complications, including respiratory failure and death.

Given the potential for addiction and the severe health risks associated with Lean, raising awareness about its dangers and promoting education on substance abuse prevention is crucial.

Is Lean A Drug?

Lean is considered a drug due to its ability to produce psychoactive effects and alter the functioning of the central nervous system. It is a recreational concoction that typically consists of prescription-strength cough syrup containing codeine and promethazine combined with soda and sometimes candy for added flavor. The codeine and promethazine present in Lean are the key components responsible for its mind-altering properties.

Codeine Cough Syrup

Codeine, an opioid medication, acts as a central nervous system depressant. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, leading to a variety of effects, including pain relief, sedation, and feelings of euphoria. These effects contribute to the drug-like qualities of Lean.

Promethazine Cough Syrup

Promethazine, on the other hand, is an antihistamine with sedative properties. It enhances the effects of codeine, further intensifying its sedative and calming properties. Codeine and promethazine create a potent mixture that can induce relaxation, drowsiness, and a sense of detachment from reality.

While Lean may not be classified as a single specific drug in the traditional sense, it is widely recognized and referred to as a substance of concern due to its recreational use and abuse. It has gained popularity through its association with hip-hop culture, music lyrics, and high-profile celebrity endorsements.

The effects of Lean can be appealing to individuals seeking a euphoric or numbing experience. However, it is important to note that Lean poses serious risks and dangers. Misuse or abuse of Lean can lead to addiction, respiratory depression, organ damage, and even overdose. The codeine present in Lean is an opioid, making it highly addictive, especially when used regularly or in large quantities.

Furthermore, Lean carries additional risks when used in combination with other substances. Mixing Lean with alcohol or other central nervous system, depressants can amplify their effects and increase the risk of dangerous complications, including respiratory failure and death.

Due to its potential for addiction and associated health risks, Lean is considered a drug of concern. It is crucial to raise awareness about the dangers of Lean, promote education on substance abuse prevention, and provide resources for those struggling with addiction to find help and support.

Learn More:

• Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms, Can You Die From Opiate Withdrawal?
• How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System, Body, Blood, and Urine?
• Opiate Detox Timeline, Withdrawal Symptoms, & Top Treatment Options
• How To Prevent & Avoid Opiate Addiction & Abuse
• Medication-Assisted Treatment. Medication Assisted Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder, MAT Program for Alcohol, FAQs & Facts.
• Opiate Withdrawal Restlessness

3.8%

Approximately 3.8% of adults aged 18 to 25 in the United States reported misusing cough and cold medicines, including Lean or Purple Drank.

Source: NSDUH

Increase In Seizures

The DEA has noted an increase in seizures of cough syrups containing codeine and promethazine, the main components of Lean, in recent years.

Source: DEA

Does Lean Show Up In A Drug Test?

Yes, Lean can appear in a drug test, depending on the substances tested. Drug tests can detect the presence of codeine, promethazine, and other components found in Lean.

Most standard drug tests, such as urine or blood tests, do not directly screen for Lean as a specific substance. However, they can identify the individual drugs present in Lean, such as opioids (codeine) and antihistamines (promethazine).

If a drug test includes screening for opioids or specific prescription medications, Lean can be detected. The codeine component of Lean will typically trigger a positive result for opioids. It’s important to note that some drug tests may have a specific panel for codeine detection, while others may have a broader opioid panel.

It’s advisable to disclose any medication or substance use to the testing facility or employer, particularly if you have a legitimate prescription for codeine or promethazine. This can help ensure an accurate interpretation of the results and prevent misunderstandings.

Suppose you are concerned about a drug test and have been using Lean or other substances. In that case, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional or testing facility to get specific information about the substances being tested and their detection methods.

Treating Lean addiction requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the physical, psychological, and social aspects. Here are some common treatments used to address Lean addiction:

• Medical Detoxification: The first step in treating Lean addiction is often medical detoxification. This process involves supervised withdrawal to manage the physical symptoms and cravings associated with discontinuing Lean. Medical professionals can provide medications and monitoring to ensure safety and comfort during detox.
• Behavioral Therapies: Various behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, effectively treat Lean addiction. These therapies help individuals understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping skills, and modify unhealthy behaviors and thought patterns.
• Support Groups: Participating in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or other addiction support groups can benefit individuals recovering from Lean addiction. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for sharing experiences, receiving guidance, and fostering accountability.
• Individual Counseling: Individual counseling sessions with addiction counselors or therapists allow personalized treatment. This one-on-one therapy helps individuals address underlying emotional issues, learn effective coping strategies, and develop relapse prevention plans.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Medications may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan for Purple Drank addiction. Medications such as buprenorphine or naltrexone can help reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery. MAT should be used in conjunction with behavioral therapies for optimal results.