Lean is an opioid-based drug which people use for the dreamy high it gives. But using it can cause serious problems for users. And if you keep taking it, you are bound to become addicted. In this blog, we explore exactly what is lean addiction, and answer all the other questions you may have about lean.

If you are addicted to lean and need help, reach out on +44 20 4530 5225. We know what it takes to recover from lean addiction, and can connect you with rehabs across Thailand who will support you or your loved one through the lean recovery process.

Addiction to Lean

Addiction to lean develops when a person becomes physically and psychologically dependent on the drink’s opioid and sedative effects. Codeine, the main ingredient, is an opioid that produces euphoria and relaxation, while promethazine enhances drowsiness. Tolerance builds with regular use, requiring higher doses to feel the same effects. Over time, this leads to dependence, where stopping lean results in withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, anxiety, muscle pain, and intense cravings. 

Long-term addiction to lean can cause severe health issues, including respiratory depression, seizures, memory loss, and organ damage. The depressant effects slow brain function, leading to cognitive impairment, emotional instability, and difficulty concentrating. Many users develop a cycle of dependence, using lean to cope with stress, anxiety, or sleep issues, only to experience worsening mental and physical health.

While it is possible to become addicted to lean by using it once, most people become addicted gradually. As with other drugs, lean users often start by using only occasionally, but fall into a regular pattern of use. Once dependency kicks in, lean users begin going into withdrawal when they do not use the drug. This is often the beginning of a rapid descent into addiction.

What is in Lean?

The traditional recipe for lean is:

• Codeine. An opioid given to people suffering from mild to moderate pain. Taken in large amounts produces mild euphoria and sedation.

• Promethazine. An antihistamine that enhances drowsiness

• Soft Drink. Usually Sprite, Mountain Dew, or another sweet soda.

• Candy. (Optional) – Often Jolly Ranchers are added for extra flavor.

People may also add other substances to lean, such as Xanax, which causes greater levels of drowsiness and significantly increases risk of overdose. Some lean users add opioids other than codeine, like Oxycodone or Hydrocodone. These give a much more powerful high than codeine, and again make overdose more likely. 

What Does Lean Feel Like?

Lean users take lean for the relaxation, euphoria and altered states of mind which it provides. In lower doses, lean can cause increased energy and feelings of exhilaration, while in higher doses lean can make users extremely drowsy, with a heavy, dopy high. Users who take this much lean may “nod out”, as their head nods up and down repeatedly while they fall in and out of sleep.

As tolerance builds, it takes far more lean for the user to achieve the desired effects, so people who are addicted to lean often take more in an attempt to recreate their early experiences. As lean is so expensive in many countries, lean users may switch to less expensive opioids, like Percocet, heroin and fentanyl.

History of Lean (Purple Drank) in the United States

Lean originated in the Southern United States, particularly in Houston, Texas. It has deep cultural roots in hip-hop and the underground drug scene.

During the 1990s, lean became popular due to its use by well-known rappers in the South of the US. DJ Screw – a legendary Houston DJ – developed a style using “chopped and screwed music—characterized by slowed-down beats— which was reminiscent of the dreamy high from lean. 

Mainstream Exposure & the 2010s Epidemic

In 2000, 3 6 Mafia brought out the song “Sippin on Some Syrup”, which became one of the earliest mainstream hip-hop tracks to popularize lean culture. The rappers Lil Wayne, Future and Chief Keef all promoted lean use through songs, interviews and album art.

During this era, several of the more prominent artists associated with lean suffered tragic overdoses. Notable tragedies include Pimp C’s death in 2007 from respiratory depression linked to lean and DJ Screw’s overdose in 2000. Lil Wayne also experienced multiple hospitalizations due to lean-induced seizures.

Legal Crackdowns & Decline (2010s–Present)

In 2014, the U.S. government tightened regulations on codeine cough syrup, making it harder to obtain. Pharmacies stopped selling popular brands like Actavis, a favorite among users. Many rappers, including Soulja Boy and Future, publicly quit lean, citing its dangers. These restrictions significantly reduced lean’s prevalence, though underground markets and counterfeit versions remain.

Is Lean Only in the United States?

Lean is used in most countries where codeine can be found. While lean use has waned in the United States in the past 10 years due to the difficulty in sourcing codeine syrup due to changes in regulations and the increased price as a result, lean has become more popular in other countries.

In the UK, lean has grown in popularity among UK rap and drill music circles. Some British artists reference it in their lyrics, leading to it being more commonly used in the general population.

“Gutter water” is a street name for a homemade version of lean that is popular in parts of Nigeria and other African countries. It typically contains a mix of codeine cough syrup, tramadol, rohypnol (flunitrazepam), and sometimes alcohol or soda. This version is often more dangerous than traditional lean, as it combines multiple depressants, increasing the risk of respiratory failure, overdose, and severe addiction.

Treatment for Lean Addiction

Addiction to lean can be just as life-destroying as addictions to other opioids. And while some people are able to get clean by themselves, or with the help of a therapist, many people who are addicted to opioids find they need a greater level of support.

Lean rehab provides a structured, medically supervised environment where you can safely detox and begin healing. You will be supported by medical professionals who can help you manage withdrawal symptoms, reducing discomfort and preventing complications like seizures or respiratory issues. 

Beyond detox, lean rehab offers therapy and counseling to address the root causes of addiction, whatever this is for you. A supportive, drug-free environment can help you break the cycle of addiction and build healthy coping mechanisms for long-term recovery.

If you or a loved one is struggling with lean addiction, getting professional help is the safest and most effective choice. Contact us on +44 20 4530 5225 to talk about the best options available for recovering from addiction to lean.