Lean was once an inexpensive niche drug, mainly used in the Southern part of the United States. Now, though, lean has become a phenomenon. Rappers across the US glamorize “sippin’ lean” as part of their aspirational lifestyle, extolling the effects as being better than any other drug.
In this blog, we look at what does lean do to you. We explore the initial positive effects people drink it for, and also dive into lean’s addictive nature, explaining what can go wrong if you become hooked to this drug.
.“Sipping and dipping and tripping, man I’m bout all out. Sippin’ on some sizurp, sip, sippin’ on some, sip” – Three 6 Mafia, “Sippin’ on Some Syrup.”
What is in Lean?
Lean is typically created by mixing prescription-strength cough syrup with soda and, often, a hard candy like Jolly Ranchers for added flavor. The main active ingredients in this concoction are codeine and promethazine.
Codeine is an opioid, a class of drugs known for their pain-relieving properties. It can induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. As opioids are highly addictive, codeine is a controlled substance.
Promethazine is an antihistamine that can cause drowsiness and enhance the effects of codeine. When mixed together, these ingredients produce the characteristic “high” that users seek. This combination also makes lean dangerous, especially when consumed in large quantities or over extended periods.
Why People Use Lean
Why do people use lean despite its dangers? The reasons usually revolve around the immediate pleasant effects and the influence of popular culture.
What does lean feel like? When you drink lean, the codeine creates a sense of euphoria and relaxation. This can be particularly appealing if you want to escape stress, anxiety, or emotional pain. The promethazine adds a sedative effect, enhancing the overall sensation of calm and detachment from reality.
Another reason people turn to lean is its portrayal in music and media. Lean has been glamorized in the hip-hop scene, with artists like DJ Screw and 3 6 Mafia referencing it in their songs and videos.
Long Term Effects of Lean Use
What does lean do to you in the long run? The long-term effects of lean use can be severe and, in some cases, irreversible. While the immediate effects might seem pleasurable, the consequences of sustained use are anything but.
Addiction
One of the most significant risks is addiction. Codeine is an opioid, and regular use can quickly lead to dependency. Addiction can take over your life, making it difficult to function without the drug and leading to withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop.
Respiratory Issues
Codeine is a respiratory depressant, meaning it can slow down your breathing. Over time, this can lead to chronic respiratory problems and increase the risk of respiratory failure, especially if you already have underlying health issues.
Organ Damage
Prolonged use of lean can cause serious damage to your liver and kidneys. The liver processes the toxins in the drug, and overloading it can lead to liver disease or failure. Similarly, the kidneys can suffer from the continuous strain of filtering out harmful substances.
Mental Health Problems
Using lean can exacerbate mental health issues like depression and anxiety. It can also impair cognitive function, affecting your memory and ability to learn. These effects can persist long after you stop using the drug, making recovery even more challenging.
Immune System Suppression
Long-term codeine use can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This added vulnerability can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being.
Dangers of Overdosing from Lean
Lean overdoses can be fatal, and the risk is particularly high due to its opioid content. Overdosing on lean can lead to severe health complications and requires immediate medical attention.
Signs of Lean Overdose
Extreme Drowsiness: Overdosing on lean can cause you to become excessively drowsy, making it difficult to stay awake or respond to external stimuli.
Slowed Breathing: Your breathing may become dangerously slow or irregular. In severe cases, it can stop altogether, leading to respiratory failure.
Unconsciousness: You might lose consciousness and be unable to wake up, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Seizures: Overdosing on lean can lead to convulsions and seizures, posing an immediate danger to your life.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s crucial to call emergency medical help immediately. Recognizing the signs of an overdose can be the difference between life and death.
Lean in Popular Culture
Lean has been prominently featured in the hip-hop community, with many artists referencing it in their lyrics and showcasing it in music videos. Famously, Three 6 Mafia spoke about lean in 2000’s “Sippin’ on Some Syrup.”
In more recent years, lean has been written about by artists such as Young Thug, Migos, 2 Chainz and Danny Brown.
This portrayal often glamorizes the drug, making it seem like a desirable and fashionable substance. For many young people, these cultural representations can create a misleading image of lean as a harmless or even prestigious drug.
These portrayals do not reflect the harsh realities of lean addiction and its consequences. While lean might appear appealing in songs and videos, the truth is that it poses significant risks to your health and well-being. The glamorization of lean in popular culture can mask the severe dangers and long-term effects of its use.
Getting Help for Lean Addiction
What does lean do to you? Apart from getting you high, it leads to severe health problems, addiction, and death.
If you have been affected by lean addiction, know that help is available. At Holina Rehab on the tropical island of Koh Phangan in Thailand, we offer you holistic recovery from addiction to lean and other opioids. For information on how our beachside rehab can give you the tools you need to stop lean for good, call us on +66 (0) 626 418 369.
About Me
Ian Young
Ian Young is the Global Manager at Holina Care Centres in Koh Phangan, Thailand. Ian oversees the rehabilitation programs that blend the 12 Step model, NLP, and various evidence-based therapies with holistic healing practices. Holina Rehab treats addictions, trauma, anxiety, and depression, offering comprehensive care in a serene resort environment. Ian, a charismatic speaker and author of “It’s Not About Me,” leverages his own recovery journey from addiction to inspire and guide others toward a fulfilling, addiction-free life.
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