Lean, also known as purple drank or sizzurp, is a recreational drug made by mixing codeine with promethazine, soda, and candy. Originating in hip-hop culture in the 1990s, it gained notoriety for its association with celebrities and musicians. However, lean use carries serious health risks, including addiction, respiratory depression, and overdose. The drink’s sweet, syrupy flavor often masks its potency, leading users to underestimate its dangers. One of the most common questions people ask about this substance is how long does it take for lean to hit?—a critical factor in understanding its risks and effects.
Lean typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes to start working, with peak effects occurring 1 to 2 hours after ingestion. This delayed onset is due to the time required for the gastrointestinal system to absorb codeine and for the liver to metabolize it into morphine, which is its active form.
Several factors influence how long it takes for lean to hit:
People often wonder how long does codeine take to work, as it is the main active ingredient in lean. Codeine binds to opioid receptors in the brain, but its conversion to morphine via the CYP2D6 enzyme is what ultimately produces its sedative and euphoric effects. Genetic variations in this enzyme can lead to unpredictable responses, with some users experiencing rapid effects and others minimal relief.
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People who consume lean report experiencing a sense of relaxation and euphoria, often described as a “floating” sensation, followed by drowsiness and impaired motor skills. Some users describe feeling lightheaded or detached from reality, with slowed speech, reduced coordination, and blurred vision. The promethazine in the mixture enhances codeine’s sedative effects, contributing to a lethargic state.
Since lean slows down the central nervous system, it produces effects similar to other opioids, such as morphine and oxycodone, including pain relief and reduced anxiety. However, the addition of sugary sodas or candies can cause rapid energy spikes followed by crashes, complicating the overall experience.
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The effects of lean usually last between 4 to 6 hours, depending on the dose and the individual’s metabolism. Codeine’s half-life—the time it takes for half the drug to leave the bloodstream—is 3 to 4 hours, but residual drowsiness or brain fog may persist longer. However, codeine stays in the body longer and can be detected in urine for up to 2 days after consumption. Chronic users or those with slower metabolisms may test positive for up to 3 days.
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Tolerance builds up quickly with frequent use, often within 2 to 3 weeks, leading to the need for higher doses to achieve the same effects. This escalates the risk of overdose, particularly when combined with other depressants.
Yes, lean is highly addictive due to its opioid content. Codeine activates the brain’s reward system by flooding it with dopamine, reinforcing repetitive use. Over time, the brain becomes reliant on this artificial dopamine surge, causing cravings and compulsive consumption.
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Regular use of lean can cause physical dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, insomnia, and anxiety when use is stopped
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The side effects of lean range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening conditions. Many users experience drowsiness and dizziness, which can impair motor function and cognitive abilities. Slow breathing, also known as respiratory depression, is a serious concern, particularly when lean is combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. Chronic use often leads to constipation, a common issue with opioids due to their impact on the digestive system.
Some individuals may develop itchy skin or allergic reactions due to the histamine release triggered by codeine. More severe risks include overdose and respiratory failure, where breathing slows to a dangerously low level, potentially leading to coma or death. Frequent consumption can also result in addiction and withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult for users to quit without medical assistance. In extreme cases, excessive use of lean has been linked to seizures and hallucinations, especially when consumed in high doses or alongside other medications.
Additionally, formulations of codeine that contain acetaminophen pose a risk of liver damage if taken in large amounts. This danger is heightened among individuals who regularly consume alcohol while using lean.
Codeine has a half-life of 3 to 4 hours, but its metabolites can be detected in urine for up to 48 hours. Blood tests can identify codeine for 24 hours, while hair follicle tests may detect it for up to 90 days.
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People struggling with lean addiction should seek professional detox and rehabilitation programs to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Medically supervised detox may include:
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Lean is a dangerous and addictive drug that depresses the central nervous system, leading to sedation, euphoria, and serious health risks like respiratory failure and organ damage. Understanding how long lean takes to hit and how long it lasts underscores the importance of avoiding experimentation.
If you or someone you know is struggling with lean addiction, reaching out to healthcare providers or addiction specialists can be the first step toward recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with lean addiction, Asana Recovery is here to help. Our specialized treatment programs provide personalized care, medical detox, and therapy to support long-term recovery. Don’t let codeine dependency take control—reach out to our compassionate team today and start your journey to sobriety. Call Asana Recovery now to learn more about our evidence-based treatment options.
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Lean typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to take effect, with peak effects occurring 1 to 2 hours after consumption. Factors like dosage, metabolism, and food intake can impact the onset time.
Codeine, the main ingredient in lean, begins working within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. It is converted into morphine in the liver, which produces its sedative and pain-relieving effects.
The effects of lean usually last 4 to 6 hours, but codeine stays in the body longer. Urine tests can detect codeine for up to 48 hours, while chronic users may test positive for several days.
Codeine kicks in within 30 to 45 minutes, depending on metabolism, dosage, and whether it was taken with food.
Yes, lean is highly addictive. Codeine is an opioid that affects the brain’s reward system, leading to dependence and withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, and cravings.
Lean poses serious health risks, including respiratory depression, organ damage, and overdose. Long-term use can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and addiction.
Codeine has a half-life of 3 to 4 hours, but its metabolites can be detected in urine for up to 48 hours and in hair follicle tests for up to 90 days.
Yes, lean can cause overdose, especially when taken in high doses or mixed with alcohol or other depressants. Symptoms of overdose include slow breathing, unconsciousness, and blue lips or fingertips.
If you or a loved one is struggling with lean addiction, seeking professional treatment is essential. Asana Recovery offers personalized detox, therapy, and long-term support for opioid addiction.
National Health Service (NHS). (n.d.). Common questions about codeine. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/codeine/common-questions-about-codeine/
MedlinePlus. (n.d.). Codeine: MedlinePlus drug information. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682065.html
SAGE Journals. (2023). Codeine use and effects: A comprehensive review. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/11782218231195226
SEBRSD. (2022). Codeine abuse and effects on health. Retrieved from https://www.sebrsd.org/o/ktms/article/687486
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