The type of drugs a teen chooses to try may have a connection to the music he or she listens to. A substance’s mention in songs can pique curiosity, and that has been the case with “sizzurp.”
The term has popped up in tracks by Three Six Mafia (“Sippin On Some Syrup”) and Lil Wayne (“Throw Some D’s”) and on Kanye West’s <I>Graduation</I> album. This unhealthy concoction also goes by the name “lean,” “syrup drank,” “barre,” “purple jelly,” “Texas tea” and “Tsikuni.” It refers to a toxic mixture of prescription-strength cough syrup containing codeine and promethazine mixed with a soda like Sprite or Mountain Dew and topped off with pieces of Jolly Rancher candy.
This drugged up drink isn’t anything new, as it’s been around the 1960s, but hip-hop artists are helping it surge in popularity. While rock music has regularly contained references to drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin and ecstasy, sizzurp seems to be the drug of the moment. There’s also a regional element, as “sipping syrup” is particularly popular in the South and in Philadelphia.
While the combination is candy-colored and tastes sweet, it comes with the same addiction and health risks as other drugs. A rapper named Pimp C died last December, and his death was ruled accidental and due to a deadly combination of syrup and sleep apnea.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Help at La Paloma
An addiction to syrup is a serious health threat. Recovery may require detox and therapy, as the euphoric feeling it produces is hard to let go. If you or someone you love needs treatment for an addiction to syrup or other substances, call La Paloma at the toll-free number on our homepage. We are here to take your call and get you into the best treatment program for you or your loved one.
