The Truth About "Lean" a.k.a "Purple Drank"

The Truth About "Lean" a.k.a "Purple Drank"

Here’s a quick update on drugs dealing crime in your area, please be reassured that we’re taking this seriously and are here to help.

There has been a rise in the reported cases of the use of "Lean", across the MPS.

Lean, also known as Purple Drank, Sizzurp, or Dirty Sprite, is a dangerous recreational drug made by mixing cough syrup containing codeine and promethazine with soft drinks and sometimes sweets.

While it is often portrayed in music and social media as harmless, Lean can have serious health consequences. It slows the body's central nervous system, which can cause extreme drowsiness, impaired judgement, breathing difficulties, seizures, and loss of consciousness. In higher doses, or when mixed with alcohol or other drugs, it can be fatal.

Regular use can lead to dependency and addiction, with users experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they stop. Long-term misuse may also result in serious physical and mental health problems.

Remember: Just because it comes from a medicine bottle does not mean it is safe. Misusing prescription medication can be just as dangerous as taking illegal drugs.

If you or someone you know is using Lean, seek advice and support as early as possible.

Drug dealing is often linked with violent crime and the exploitation of vulnerable people, and discarded drug equipment can be a health risk and counts as antisocial behaviour.  

We’ve put hundreds more officers on the frontlines of community crime-fighting teams, upping visible patrols in the right ‘hot spots’ so we can deter and catch criminals.

We are committed to tackling drug dealing wherever we find it. It forms a key part of our recently published ASB Action Plan. We will keep you updated on our efforts to do this in your area, but if you have any concerns or evidence, it is important you report this as soon as possible.  

If you have experienced drug dealing in your area, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk or call the non-emergency number 101. 

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org