The consumption of “lean,” a mixture typically comprised of prescription-strength cough syrup containing codeine or promethazine, combined with a soft drink, elicits varied sensory descriptions. Online forums, such as Reddit, are often used as platforms for individuals to share their experiences with the flavor profile. User accounts often depict the taste as excessively sweet, frequently compared to the flavor of the chosen soft drink (often grape or fruit-flavored), but with a distinctly medicinal aftertaste stemming from the cough syrup.
Understanding the flavor of this concoction is crucial for recognizing its presence and potential misuse. The ease with which the components can be acquired, combined with the seemingly innocuous taste attributed to the masking effect of the soft drink, contributes to its appeal among certain populations. Awareness of this characteristic is vital for intervention and prevention efforts, particularly among vulnerable groups.