Some call it purple drank, others refer to it as lean, and for some, it’s simply ‘sizzurp.’ Lean is a concoction of soda, fruity flavoring, and prescription-strength cough medicine with codeine that can bear a deceptively innocuous appearance. Is lean addictive or dangerous?
At Michael’s House, we take the use of lean seriously. We help patients addicted to lean and other substances heal so they can live happier, healthier lives. Call 760.548.4032 to learn about our addiction treatment programs. There is no shame in seeking help, and want to help support you.
What Is Lean?
Lean, often associated with the hip-hop community, began as a homemade mixture of promethazine and codeine cough syrup with a soft drink, notably in Houston. However, the recipe has evolved, and some variations include alcohol and even candies. Taken in high doses, lean causes a sedative effect and can lead to serious health complications. The sweet taste camouflages the potent drugs hidden within, often appealing to those unaware of the risks.
Dangers of Lean
At its core, lean contains two primary ingredients that raise red flags. Codeine, an opiate, offers a powerful pain-relieving experience and, when abused, alters brain chemistry. The antihistamine and promethazine add a twist to the codeine’s sedative effects, increasing their potency. When combined and consumed in large volumes, lean can garnish the tongue with a sweet but dangerous concoction that comes with significant addictive potential.
Is Lean Addictive?
Is lean addictive? The short answer is yes. Lean, like other opioids, causes changes in the brain’s reward system. The brain associates lean with pleasure, creating a desire for more and making it difficult to stop using despite the negative consequences. Additionally, physical dependence can develop when someone uses lean regularly and experiences withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.
Why Lean Is So Addictive
The allure of lean is multifaceted, making it challenging to ignore for some. Its sedative effects provide relief from pain and stress, while the sweet flavor makes it easy to consume. Lean also has a reputation for enhancing creativity and promoting relaxation, adding to its appeal. However, as with most addictions, the initial positive effects eventually fade, leading individuals to use more to chase the same high. This pattern can quickly spiral into a dangerous addiction.
Signs of Lean Addiction
There are a few signs that someone may be addicted to lean. If you or a loved one:
- Craves lean frequently
- Continues using despite negative consequences
- Struggles to cut back or quit altogether
- Experiences withdrawal symptoms when not using
It may indicate a potential addiction and warrant seeking professional help.
Seeking Help for Lean Addiction
Addiction can feel like an isolating and overwhelming battle, but it doesn’t have to be fought alone. Seeking help for lean addiction is a brave and necessary step toward recovery. At Michael’s House, we offer comprehensive treatment programs tailored to individual needs, including medical detox, therapy, and aftercare support.
We incorporate a range of therapies into our treatment, including:
- Individual
- Group
- Yoga
- 12-step
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
We understand that addiction is a complex health condition and offer compassionate, evidence-based care to support our patients on their journey toward lasting recovery. We can help patients address the root causes of their addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms for a sustained recovery.
Call Michael’s House Today to Begin Healing
Lean may seem harmless, but the truth is that it can be addictive and dangerous. If you or someone you know is struggling with lean addiction, reach out for help today. Recovery is possible, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Call Michael’s House at 760.548.4032 or reach out online to learn more about our treatment options and begin your journey toward a healthier life.
