Lean (drug)

Lean (also known as purple drank, sizzurp, and dirty sprite) is a type of recreational drug that originated in the Southern United States. It is a concoction made by combining prescription-strength cough syrup, soft drinks, and hard candies. The primary active ingredient in lean is codeine, a narcotic that is both medically legitimate and potentially dangerous.

History

The use of lean began in the 1960s, when blues musicians in Houston, Texas began drinking a mixture of Robitussin cough syrup and beer. The practice was later adopted by the hip hop community in the 1990s, and it has since spread to other parts of the United States and beyond.

Effects

The effects of lean are primarily due to the codeine in the cough syrup. Codeine is an opioid that produces a feeling of euphoria and relaxation. However, it can also cause serious side effects, including respiratory distress, seizures, and death. The high sugar content of the soft drinks and candies can also contribute to health problems, such as obesity and tooth decay.

Legal status

In the United States, codeine is a Schedule II drug under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and is available only by prescription. However, the use of lean is difficult to regulate because the ingredients are legal and readily available.

In popular culture

Lean has been referenced in numerous songs, particularly in the hip hop genre. It has also been associated with several high-profile deaths, including those of rappers DJ Screw and Pimp C.

See also

• Drug culture
• Opioid epidemic
• Substance abuse

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