Home » Blog » What Is Purple Drank? Understanding the Dangers of Codeine Cough Syrup Mixtures

Jump to Section

In recent years, a dangerous concoction known as purple drank — sometimes called lean, sizzurp, or drinking lean — has become a growing public health concern. Originally popularized in hip-hop music from the Southeastern United States, this drink may seem like a harmless trend, but it has devastating consequences. Behind the catchy name is a toxic mixture of prescription cough syrup, soda, and candy that can easily lead to addiction, overdose, or death.

This article will examine what purple drank is, what’s really in it, and why so many young adults and college students are drawn to this dangerous substance. We’ll also review the latest research, describe its connection to popular culture, and explain how substance abuse treatment can help those struggling with codeine misuse or dependence.

What Is Purple Drank?

Purple drank is a mixture made from codeine cough syrup (a prescription medication), promethazine, and a sweet soda like Sprite or Mountain Dew. Often, candy like Jolly Ranchers is added to improve the flavor. The syrup gives the drink its distinctive purple color and sedative effects.

This concoction was first popularized in Houston, Texas, by local artists whose musical style mirrored the slowed-down sensations caused by drinking lean. Over time, references to purple drank spread across the pharmaceutical industry, media, and youth culture, where it became a symbol of rebellion and relaxation.

However, this image hides the dangers behind the substance. What’s being consumed isn’t a harmless beverage — it’s a potent codeine cough syrup mixture that can depress breathing, cause overdose, and permanently harm the body.

What’s in Purple Drank?

At its core, purple drank contains prescription cough syrup that includes two psychoactive drugs: codeine and promethazine. These ingredients, when combined with other substances like alcohol or sedatives, create an extremely high risk for respiratory depression, addiction, and even death.

Here is an overview of the potentially hazardous combination of ingredients that purple drank contains.

Codeine

Codeine is an opioid derived from the poppy plant. It’s commonly prescribed in codeine cough syrup to suppress severe coughing. However, in large amounts, it affects the same brain receptors as heroin and morphine, producing feelings of euphoria and calm.

This makes codeine misuse extremely dangerous. Over time, the brain adapts, leading to tolerance, dependence, and opioid withdrawal when the person stops using it. Symptoms of withdrawal include muscle pain, sweating, nausea, and anxiety. Prolonged misuse can also lead to codeine overdose, where the user’s breathing slows or stops entirely — a condition known as respiratory depression.

Promethazine

Promethazine is an antihistamine with sedative properties. It enhances the effects of codeine, increasing the risk of drowsiness, confusion, and slow breathing. When combined with other drugs or alcohol, the effects can be fatal. Promethazine also contributes to the “leaning” posture and drowsiness that inspired the slang term lean.

Other Ingredients

The mixture is typically sweetened with soda and candy. While these ingredients may make the drink taste better, they also make it more appealing to adolescents and young adults who may not recognize the dangers. Because the drink tastes harmless, people may consume large amounts without realizing they are ingesting toxic doses of psychoactive drugs.

The Cultural Influence: From Music to Mainstream

The rise of purple drank in hip-hop music played a significant role in its prevalence. Lyrics and music videos from artists in the Southeastern United States helped glamorize the drink as part of a laid-back lifestyle. This cultural influence spread quickly, with content analysis of lyrics showing frequent references to codeine syrup and “sippin’ on syrup.”

A recent study conducted by public health researchers found that self-report surveys among college students and young adults revealed that exposure to music or media portraying purple drank increased curiosity and experimentation. What began as a local trend evolved into a nationwide public health issue, with evidence showing that substance use patterns are strongly shaped by cultural messaging.

These findings describe how popular media can develop interest in drug experimentation, especially among impressionable youth. Even when artists later warn against the habit, the early connection between music and drugs often lingers, leading fans to respond to those earlier messages rather than later cautionary ones.

Mandala Healing Center accepts the following insurance providers

The Dangers of Purple Drank Misuse

While purple drank may seem like a casual way to relax, it’s a serious substance with potentially deadly consequences. Because the codeine cough syrup used in these mixtures is a prescription medication, taking it outside of medical supervision is considered cough syrup misuse — and it’s a form of substance abuse.

Here is a closer look at the dangers of using purple drank.

Codeine Overdose

An overdose occurs when the body can’t process the drugs quickly enough, leading to respiratory depression, coma, or death. Codeine overdose can happen suddenly, even after one drink, especially if the person mixes it with alcohol or other drugs. Warning signs include extreme sleepiness, confusion, bluish lips, or slow breathing.

Addiction and Dependence

Repeated ingestion of codeine syrup leads to dependence. The brain becomes accustomed to the substance, and stopping it can trigger severe opioid withdrawal. Without treatment, this cycle often repeats, reinforcing substance abuse and deepening the addiction.

Long-Term Health Risks

Prolonged cough syrup misuse can damage major organs. The liver and kidneys struggle to filter the toxins from codeine cough syrup mixtures, while the heart and lungs may weaken over time. Chronic users may also experience depression, cognitive impairment, and an increased risk of fatal overdose.

The “Sticky Business” of Purple Drank

The phrase “sticky business” is sometimes used to describe the moral gray area around cough syrup misuse, where a legal pharmaceutical industry product is being used illegally to achieve a high. This creates complex challenges for healthcare providers and policymakers trying to balance the legitimate medical use of prescribed cough syrups with their misuse in recreational settings.

Research About Purple Drank: Exploring the Findings

According to recent survey data from public health agencies, adolescents, college students, and young adults are the most likely to experiment with purple drank. The prevalence varies across regions and ethnic groups, but studies have found higher use rates in parts of the Southeastern United States, where the drink first gained fame.

Current studies have conducted content analysis of music and media to explore how cultural influence affects substance use trends. Many participants self-report using purple drank “just to try it” or “for fun,” often selected randomly from peer experiences or online videos. However, evidence shows that repeated exposure can quickly lead to misuse and dependence.

These findings support the idea that public health efforts must target early prevention — especially among adolescents who are still developing decision-making skills and may underestimate the dangers of psychoactive drugs.

Why Purple Drank Appeals to Young Adults

Researchers have tried to examine what drives young adults and college students toward drinking lean despite the risks. Some report that it helps them feel calm, escape stress, or fit in socially. Others describe using it to develop a creative or emotional mood, influenced by music and popular culture.

Unfortunately, what’s intended as a form of relaxation or fun can quickly spiral into substance abuse. Over time, users may need larger amounts to achieve the same effect, putting them at higher risk of overdose and permanent damage.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Purple Drank Misuse

If you suspect someone is misusing codeine cough syrup mixtures, look for the following symptoms:

Extreme sleepiness or “nodding off”
Slurred speech or poor coordination
Bottles of cough syrup disappearing
Unusual mixtures or colored drinks in bottles or cups
Withdrawing from family and friends
Sudden mood changes or irritability

Even if the person denies it, these behaviors are strong evidence of a developing substance use problem.

How Substance Abuse Treatment Can Help

Overcoming codeine misuse and cough syrup misuse isn’t easy, but help is available. Substance abuse treatment programs are designed to support recovery through every stage — from detox to aftercare.

Treatment may include:

Medical detox to manage opioid withdrawal safely
Therapy and counseling to address underlying emotional pain
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for long-term support
Education and relapse prevention to build coping strategies

Professional treatment gives people the tools to recover from addiction and rebuild a healthier life.

Find Treatment and Recovery Support

Purple drank may seem like a harmless drink or a symbol of creativity, but it’s a concoction with deadly dangers. Beneath the music, colors, and cultural hype lies a mixture of psychoactive drugs that can destroy lives.

Understanding what’s really in purple drank — and the risks of cough syrup misuse — is the first step in protecting yourself or someone you love. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, reach out for support today. Recovery is possible — and every person deserves the chance to heal.

If you or a loved one needs treatment to overcome substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find treatment, support, and recovery resources at the Mandala Healing Center. Learn about our holistic treatment programs or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out to our team today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Purple Drank

1. Is purple drank illegal?

Yes, when used without a prescription or outside of medical guidance, the substances in purple drank — particularly codeine and promethazine — are considered controlled substances.

Possessing or distributing these medications without a valid prescription is illegal in the United States and can result in criminal charges. Even sharing your prescribed cough syrup with someone else is against the law.

2. Can you overdose on purple drank the first time you try it?

Absolutely. Because purple drank often contains high doses of opioids and sedatives, even a single use can result in a dangerous overdose — especially if the person has low tolerance, mixes it with alcohol, or unknowingly consumes a large amount. The risk is especially high for young or inexperienced users.

3. Why is purple drank popular in music and pop culture?

Purple drank gained popularity in hip-hop culture in the 1990s and early 2000s, particularly in the Southern U.S. Artists often referenced it in lyrics and videos, portraying it as part of a laid-back lifestyle. Unfortunately, these portrayals can glamorize a very real and dangerous substance, influencing impressionable listeners to try it without understanding the risks.

4. How do people usually hide their purple drank use?

Some individuals disguise purple drank in everyday beverage containers, like water bottles or fast food cups, to avoid suspicion. They might also dilute it further to hide its color or mix it with flavored drinks. Social media posts and slang terms can make it harder for parents and loved ones to recognize what’s really being consumed.

5. What should I do if I find someone passed out from purple drank?

Call 911 immediately. If you suspect someone has overdosed on purple drank, especially if they’re unconscious, breathing slowly, or turning blue, they may need emergency medical attention. If available, administer naloxone (Narcan) — a medication that can reverse opioid overdose — and wait with the person until help arrives.

6. Is it safe to detox from purple drank at home?

It’s not recommended. Withdrawal from codeine and other opioids can be physically and emotionally intense. Detoxing under medical supervision ensures that symptoms are managed safely and that complications — including relapse or overdose — are minimized. A professional treatment center can also provide emotional support during the most vulnerable stages of recovery.

What Is Purple Drank? Understanding the Dangers of Codeine Cough Syrup Mixtures