Cough syrup abuse and lean drinking have garnered attention in the past few years due to their association with various prominent figures in the music industry. There’s also a rising concern when it comes to drug abuse in general and lean dependence in particular among young people.
This is why lean addiction treatment has become indispensable in addressing the challenges posed by the abuse of this lethal beverage. It consists of a comprehensive process that incorporates medical detoxification, therapy, and counseling. Together, they help address the unique complexities of this substance use disorder and any potential withdrawal symptoms.
This article aims to uncover everything about this type of addiction, the long-term effects of lean dependence, and various treatment options.
Table of Contents
Understanding Lean Addiction
Let’s start by getting to know more about this form of substance misuse, its different signs and symptoms, and the dangers associated with prolonged lean abuse.
What Is Lean?
Lean, sometimes called “purple drank,” “sizzurp,” or “Dirty Sprite,” is a recreational drug concoction that has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly among young adults.
This lethal cocktail is made by combining one or more prescription drugs, mainly cough syrups, and the user’s choice of hard candy, like Jolly Ranchers, to enhance the flavor and soda, usually Sprite to give it a bit of a fizzy taste.
The resulting color of the beverage is a deep shade of purple, hence the name.
Yet, why is it addictive? Well, the main ingredient in cough medications is codeine, an opioid pain reliever used to block pain signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Prolonged codeine use can easily lead to dependence, and ultimately addiction.
These prescription drugs also contain promethazine, a sedating antihistamine that makes you feel drowsy while managing allergic conditions, nausea, and motion sickness. In large quantities, it can also become highly addictive.
The Side Effects of Lean Dependence
Even though the health risks of drinking lean aren’t as widely studied as other drugs, it’s been proven that lean addiction can lead to many of the same withdrawal symptoms as other opiate substances.
For example, since codeine works as a depressant on the central nervous system, prolonged lean abuse can lead to severe health complications, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs.
For example, it can slow down the individual’s heart rate. It can also restrict their breathing, leading to a life-threatening condition known as respiratory depression, which can eventually result in respiratory failure.
Other physical symptoms and side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Liver and kidney damage
- Weakened immune system
- Hormonal imbalance
- Sexual dysfunction
For individuals suffering from existing mental health issues, lean abuse can make matters worse, particularly since it’s often used to self-medicate anxiety, stress, and other conditions.
The following are a few common mental health symptoms of lean abuse:
- Cognitive impairment
- Emotional numbness
- Social isolation
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and panic attacks
The Need for Detox in Lean Addiction Treatment
Medical detoxification plays a vital role in addressing the physical and psychological dependencies that individuals develop with prolonged lean drinking. It’s conducted under the care of medical professionals who are trained to provide the necessary support and interventions to successfully manage withdrawal symptoms.
In short, detox helps reduce any discomfort the individual may experience when quitting.
Here’s how:
Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
The most important reason for detox when treating lean addiction is to help manage the uncomfortable effects of withdrawal, which range from flu-like symptoms and agitation to insomnia and severe cravings.
The process usually involves the use of medications to alleviate the unease and discomfort as well as ensure the safety of those undergoing detox.
Transitioning to a Comprehensive Treatment Program
Detox serves as the starting phase of lean addiction treatment. It helps prepare individuals for any upcoming counseling and therapy. In other words, it sets the stage for a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of this type of substance abuse.
Addressing Physical Dependence
As with other substance abuse issues, the prolonged use of lean can lead to physical dependence. That’s why it can be challenging for individuals to stop using lean without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
As such, detox helps individuals address this physical dependence in a structured environment, thus lowering the risk of relapse. It also helps monitor and manage potential medical complications, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, to help ensure the individual’s safety and well-being.
Treatment Options in West Palm Beach
As with any type of drug addiction, lean addiction treatment often demands professional help along with evidence-based treatment programs. The options for treatment vary depending on the severity of the individual’s addiction.
Here are the most common treatment options available in West Palm Beach.
Inpatient Treatment
Medical experts agree that inpatient, or residential, treatment is the best option for those who have trouble quitting their lean dependence. They’re also recommended for those who have other key factors that place them at increased risk, such as co-occurring mental health issues.
Allure Detox is one of the most renowned facilities in West Palm Beach when it comes to providing individuals with a multi-faceted, comprehensive residential treatment program. Their inpatient services offer round-the-clock care and support as well as provide clients with a mental health counselor, support groups, and other treatment approaches.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient programs are designed for people whose dependence on lean isn’t as severe and whose overall health isn’t at acute risk.
They can continue to live at home and maintain their everyday routines while getting the support and care they need to wean themselves off lean completely. Yet, while individuals will still have access to a wide range of personalized treatment options, they won’t be monitored 24/7.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
As mentioned above, many people with lean dependency also suffer from underlying mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Dual diagnosis treatments address these co-occurring disorders at the same time as treating lean addiction is vital for reducing the risk of relapse and ensuring a successful recovery.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies address the underlying factors that have helped contribute to the individual’s substance abuse. Modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are effective in helping individuals develop more efficient coping strategies and modify harmful behaviors.
Supportive Counseling
Allure Detox offers both group and individual counseling sessions. They provide individuals with a safe environment where they can share their experiences, receive guidance from a qualified therapist, and learn from others.
Holistic Approaches
One of the best features of Allure Detox is its holistic approach to therapy. Incorporating varied approaches, such as meditation, exercise, yoga, and art therapy, can help individuals manage stress and improve their overall well-being. They also work at providing healthier outlets for their emotions, allowing for better decisions and reducing the risk of relapsing.
Military Program
Similar to the Army’s Substance Abuse Program (ASAP), the military program at Allure Detox generally can last anywhere between 30 to 360 days, depending on the severity of the case. It consists of weekly 12-step meetings, one-on-one individual therapy sessions, peer support, and psychoeducation designed to help individuals and their families understand the symptoms of lean addiction, address the underlying causes, and effectively deal with potential triggers.
A Final Note
If you or a loved one has been struggling with lean dependence, the healthcare professionals at Allure Detox rehab facility can help. By offering individualized lean addiction treatment plans, they provide those suffering from lean abuse the support and care necessary to help them maintain their sobriety.
They also offer dual diagnosis treatment programs for people who are also dealing with mental health issues alongside their substance use. All in all, these treatment options help individuals find the treatment they need, build life skills, and prevent relapsing as they return to their daily routines.
