Lean is a slang term describing a mixture of alcohol, cough syrup, antihistamines, and candy. People sometimes refer to lean as “purple drank.” Despite the lighthearted names for this concoction, drinking it can be very dangerous and may lead to a life-threatening addiction.
Lean contains a codeine cough syrup. Codeine is a highly addictive opioid drug. Opioid abuse can be dangerous and may lead to physical dependence. Drinking purple drank can quickly lead to serious side effects, physical dependence, and addiction.
This article will explore the dangers of lean. You will learn:
- The effects and risks of drinking lean
- How to recognize lean abuse and addiction
- What happens in lean addiction treatment
- Where to find substance abuse treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find treatment and support to overcome addiction at Archstone Recovery. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an assessment appointment.
What is Lean?
Lean, “dirty Sprite,” or “purple drank” is a dangerous beverage containing:
- Prescription codeine cough syrup
- Hard candy
- Soda or soft drinks
- An antihistamine called promethazine
People may also add alcohol to this mixture, which increases the potential side effects and risks. Adolescents and young adults are the most likely groups to drink lean. This drink is appealing to younger people because it is sweet and colorful. People may also learn about purple drank from musicians or on social media.
Lean’s sweetness and popularity can cover up the real risks of drinking it. If you or someone you love drinks lean, you must stop. If you cannot stop on your own, seek treatment right away. Contact the Archstone Recovery specialists to learn more about lean abuse or to find treatment.
The Side Effects of Lean
Lean is a mixture of codeine cough syrup, candy, soda, and an antihistamine. It may cause people to lose coordination and muscle control, leading to slouching or leaning as they consume it. This is where the drink gets its name.
Lean contains promethazine, which is an antihistamine, and codeine. These substances can have serious and potentially dangerous side effects.
Codeine is a controlled substance. It is an addictive opioid. Codeine and other opioids can depress central nervous system (CNS) activity. Some of the side effects of codeine include:
- Euphoria
- Drowsiness
- Relaxation
These sedative effects may be appealing. People may abuse codeine by taking higher doses or taking it more often than prescribed. Over time, codeine abuse can change how a person’s body and brain function.
Promethazine is an antihistamine. It blocks the body’s production of histamine, which can reduce the effects of an allergic reaction. People may take promethazine to manage allergies, motion sickness, and other conditions.
Promethazine can have sedative effects. Medical professionals may administer promethazine to help patients relax before surgeries. Some people use it as a recreational drug because of these effects.
Lean contains a mixture of promethazine and codeine. This dangerous combination has a high risk of short-term and long-term side effects. It is critical to seek treatment and support to address the physical nd psychological effects of lean abuse.
Understanding the Dangers of Drinking Lean
Lean contains a dangerous combination of promethazine, codeine, and sometimes alcohol. People may drink lean for its relaxing or euphoric effects. However, combining these substances can have dangerous side effects. Some of the dangers of drinking lean include:
- Ringing ears
- Nightmares
- Hallucinations
- Confusion
- Respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing)
- Dangerous heart rate changes
- Blurry vision
- Seizures
- Organ failure
People may also develop tolerance and physical dependence on codeine. Codeine is an opioid drug with a high risk of abuse and addiction. Overcoming opioid addiction can be very challenging.
Most people require significant treatment and ongoing support to overcome the physical and psychological aspects of opioid addiction. Contact the Archstone Recovery specialists to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
Recognizing and Treating Lean Abuse and Addiction
Lean abuse has grown in the United States over the last decade. People who abuse purple drank may develop opioid addiction. It can be very challenging to overcome opioid addiction, and most people require intensive treatment to quit using these addictive drugs safely.
Recognizing the signs of opioid abuse can help you or a loved one seek treatment. Common signs of opioid abuse include:
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using opioids
- Having cravings for opioids
- Needing larger doses of opioids to get the desired effects
- Spending a lot of time getting, using, and recovering from using opioids
- Having legal, social, or financial trouble related to opioid use
- Increased isolation
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or hobbies because of opioid use
People who become addicted to opioids often struggle to stop taking them. Most require comprehensive treatment for opioid addiction. This may include:
- Medical detox programs
- Assessments and screenings
- Behavioral therapies
- Medication management
- Individual, family, and group counseling
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies, including exercise, nutrition support, relaxation techniques, yoga, and mindfulness
- Aftercare planning and support
If you or someone you love abuses opioids or other substances, you are not alone. Find effective treatment and compassionate support at Archstone Recovery. Please contact our team with any questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
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