Codeine is a narcotic. Some people have found a way to abuse it recreationally. They mix the syrup form into soda to mask the taste. It is commonly referred to as lean. Exactly what is lean, and is it an addictive drug?
What is Lean?
Therapists at a top-quality Kansas substance abuse treatment center now work with people abusing lean. Some users refer to it as sizzurp or purple drank. But what is purple drank? If you pay attention to hip hop culture, then you may have heard references to it in many songs.
It’s a drug mix that consists of prescription-strength cough syrup, soda, and hard candy. To get high, you need to take significant overdoses of the cough syrup. Typically, this means ingesting dangerous levels of codeine and antihistamines. Because these medications taste bad, people mix in candy and soda.
Addiction Potential of Lean
What is lean? To put it plainly, it is another name for a drug containing an opioid. The United States currently struggles with a prescription drug crisis. Codeine is a contributing factor. Besides that, it has all the risk factors of other opioids.
Examples include the slowing of breathing, heartbeat irregularities, and constipation. Addiction happens gradually. One day, you’ll wake up to withdrawal symptoms such as muscle pains and depression. Therefore, you continue to abuse the substance.
However, to achieve the high, you now have to take a substantially higher dose. Every time you do so, you take a significant health risk. You may accidentally ingest a fatal amount of the opioid. Another risk factor is mixing the drug with alcohol or another nervous system depressant.
Ending a Chemical Dependency on the Opioid
So, what is purple drank? Essentially, it’s another word for lean and is a dangerous drug. Your addiction is also an opportunity for healing. If you struggle with chemical dependency on this substance, there is help available.
Rehab centers routinely work with people who deal with opioid addiction. The trick here is to seek out a relaxing atmosphere. It sets the tone for focusing on life-long recovery and healing. Most importantly, therapists at this type of facility will customize a care protocol for you.
Possible modalities include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy that gives you a chance to repair dysfunctional connections between thoughts and feelings
- Medication-assisted treatment, which gives you a leg up for dealing with opioid cravings during recovery
- Depression, anxiety, and personality disorder treatment as part of a dual diagnosis program
- Group therapy that focuses on peer mentoring, addiction education, and relapse prevention
- Meditation, yoga, and similar stress management tools to help you find new ways of handling triggers
What Happens If You Keep Drinking Lean?
Although quite a few songs glorify the drug, do not underestimate its danger. It has already claimed the lives of many people – even those who’ve sung about it. Because most people abuse the drug at parties, it’s easy to dismiss its problems as trivial. After all, you feel safe in a group.
However, nobody will know if you are just passing out or slowly dying from breathing problems. Similarly, a heart attack can happen at any time. It’s essential that you quit abusing sizzurp immediately. Because it’s challenging to do so on your own, working with therapists can be the game-changer you need.
What is lean abuse in your life covering up right now? Enroll in therapy and find out. At the Sunflower Wellness Retreat, caring therapists want to assist you. Call 855.730.8825 today to schedule an appointment.
