How Lean Became Rap’s Most Wanted Drug

Also known as Sizzurp, Dirty Sprite, or Purple Drank, “lean” is often made by mixing prescription-strength codeine cough syrup with soda. The drink has become popularized in hip-hop culture over the last several years, with famous rappers drinking and featuring it in their music videos. Now the trend has spread to social media, making it even more popular among fans who are posting to emulate some of their favorite rap stars. VICE’s Matt Shea travels to Florida to meet some users and distributors of lean to see its influence on pop culture first-hand.