Dirty Sprite is a mixture of clear soda and prescription cough medicine that contains codeine and promethazine.[1] It’s also known as “lean” or “purple drank,” and in some cases, candy is added for coloring.

This mixture is a dangerous concoction as it contains the opioid codeine and promethazine, an antihistamine. The risks associated with this recreational substance are significant. Addiction, organ damage, and even death are possible with the use of Dirty Sprite.

Dirty Sprite is the result of mixing clear soft drinks with cough medicine that contains codeine and promethazine. Candy, such as Jolly Ranchers, is sometimes added for coloring.

Dirty Sprite is also known by the names “purple drank” and “lean.” No matter what you call it, using this mixture can lead to serious physical, mental, and emotional side effects.

Origins of Dirty Sprite

The roots of Dirty Sprite can be traced back to the 1960s in Houston, Texas.[2] It was first created to elicit euphoric effects from the codeine contained in the cough medicine. Over the years, Dirty Sprite gained popularity as it was referenced in certain music lyrics and videos.

The slang term “lean” originated in Houston’s hip-hop culture in the 1990s and reportedly refers to the sensation that causes people to lean over when they consume it.[3]

Effects of Taking Dirty Sprite

Several immediate side effects can occur when taking Dirty Sprite, such as: [4]

• Drowsiness
• Slurred speech
• Slowed breathing
• Poor judgment
• Lethargy
• Relaxation
• Impaired motor skills

There are also long-term side effects to consider, which can be extremely dangerous: [5]

• Blurred vision
• Dental decay
• Pancreatitis
• Liver damage
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Cardiovascular problems
• Constipation
• Coma
• Changes in consciousness
• Trouble urinating
• Shaking

These health risks will vary depending on the amount of the substance taken and the duration of use.

There is also evidence that Dirty Sprite can lead to neuroleptic malignant syndrome. [6] This is a rare, but life-threatening, reaction to dopamine-blocking medications and antipsychotic drugs. It can lead to rapid heart rate and breathing, blood pressure changes, and high fever, and is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Signs Someone is Using Dirty Sprite

Several warning signs can indicate someone is using opioids, such as the codeine found in Dirty Sprite. These include: [7]

• Small pupils
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Decreased respiratory rate
• Secretive behavior
• Isolating from friends and family
• Moodiness
• Irritability

If you notice these warning signs in a loved one, you’ll want to investigate their behavior to see if they are abusing codeine.

Mental Health Impact of Using Dirty Sprite

Besides physical effects, using Dirty Sprite can also have these negative mental health effects: [8]

• Panic Attacks and Anxiety: People taking Dirty Sprite can experience heightened anxiety levels and be more prone to panic attacks.
• Mood Swings: Abusing codeine can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. This can lead to emotional instability.
• Social Isolation: People using Dirty Sprite may start to prioritize using it over spending time with friends and family. This social withdrawal can lead to isolation and depression.
• Cognitive Impairment: Using Dirty Sprite can also cause cognitive impairment. Memory and judgement can both be impaired. When judgment is impaired, it can lead to risky behaviors such as unprotected sex, driving under the influence, and criminal activity.
• Emotional Detachment: Taking Dirty Sprite can also make people emotionally numb, making it challenging for people to express their emotions. They may feel detached from their surroundings and even have a disconnection from their own thoughts.

What are the Risks of Using Dirty Sprite?

The codeine and promethazine in Dirty Sprite are both central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which slow essential functions.[9] The central nervous system is the brain and the spinal cord, the body’s primary control center. Taken together, these substances can reduce CNS functions to a dangerous level.

Codeine is often prescribed to relieve pain and suppress a cough, and it works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain. [10] This reduces pain perception and can control the cough reflex. When codeine is used in large quantities, it can lead to euphoria and sedative effects as it depresses the central nervous system (CNS). When codeine is abused long-term, it can lead to addiction.

Promethazine is used to relieve the itching, sneezing, and runny nose that can accompany colds and allergies. It also has sedative effects. [11] When it is combined with codeine, the sedative effects become stronger, which can lead to more dangerous side effects.

Can You Become Addicted to Dirty Sprite?

Yes, people can become addicted to Dirty Sprite because of the substances it contains. Codeine is a highly addictive opioid, and when combined with the influence of promethazine, can result in an addiction to one or both drugs.

Signs that someone has become addicted to Dirty Sprite include:

• Continuing to use it despite unpleasant side effects
• Craving the substance to function
• Spending a lot of time or money on the mixture
• Being unsuccessful when trying to stop using it

Professional addiction treatment is the best approach to addressing and overcoming substance misuse. Reach out today for the support you or your loved one may need.

Dangerous Drug Interactions

Dirty Sprite can be dangerous on its own, but when taken with other medications, it can cause even more serious health concerns. People taking any of these drugs can be at risk for adverse effects: [12]

• Bepridil
• Bromopride
• Calcium Oxybate
• Cisapride
• Dronedarone
• Isocarboxazid
• Levoketoconazole
• Linezolid
• Magnesium Oxybate
• Mavorixafor
• Mesoridazine
• Ozanimod
• Phenelzine
• Pimozide
• Piperaquine
• Potassium Chloride
• Potassium Citrate
• Potassium Oxybate
• Procarbazine
• Rasagiline
• Selegiline
• Sodium Oxybate
• Sparfloxacin
• Terfenadine
• Thioridazine
• Tranylcypromine
• Ziprasidone

This is not an exhaustive list by any means. The best choice to avoid serious health risks is to avoid using Dirty Sprite and prevent interactions with medications you may be taking.

Seek Treatment for “Dirty Sprite” Abuse and Addiction

Since codeine is an opioid, it is important to seek treatment if someone is using Dirty Sprite. Detoxing from the drug is the first step. With medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms can be managed and treatment can begin.

It is also important to educate yourself on the dangers of using substances and the consequences they can have on your life. To make safer choices to avoid substance abuse, you should never share prescription medications or take them in ways they are not prescribed.

Reduce stress by practicing yoga and exercising so that you’re not tempted to use substances as an outlet. Surrounding yourself with a solid support network of people who are there to talk to you during difficult times is important, so you don’t feel like you need to turn to substances for comfort.

Finally, having safety plans on hand to handle risky situations can mean the difference between using substances and avoiding them.