What is Sizzurp?

High profile controversies surrounding young celebrities such as Justin Bieber and Lil Wayne have occasionally mentioned the use of a substance referred to as “Sizzurp.” Today we’ll take a closer look at what is contained in this concoction.

Other popular names for sizzurp include drank, lean, purple drank, purple jelly, and Texas tea.

Ingredients of Sizzurp

The ingredients will vary based on availability to whoever is making it, however sizzurp is typically a mix of cough syrup containing  hydrocodone or promethazine-codeine along with a soft drink and small pieces of candy. The most common sodas used are Sprite or Mountain Dew, along with a variety of candies (usually Jolly Ranchers). Some users create sizzurp from over-the-counter cough medicines containing dextromethorphan, such as Coricidin or Robitussin DM.

Risks

The risks depend on which version of sizzurp being taken. For codeine-based sizzurp, less serious side effects include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and rash. Life-threatening effects include seizures, slowed heart rate, shallow breathing, fainting, or weak pulse.   

For hydrocodone-based sizzurp, common side effects can include dizziness, itching, nausea, vomiting, and rash. More serious side effects include coma, cardiac arrest, and death. There may also be liver damage with long-term use.

Notable Stories

• 2000 – Houston’s DJ Screw died from an overdose of codeine-based sizzurp, along with valium and PCP.
• 2007 – It was speculated that sizzurp contributed to the heart attack that led to the death of  rapper Big Moe.
• 2008 – Rapper Pimp C was reported to have died in 2008 from respiratory depression (combined with a sleep apnea condition) after taking a concoction of promethazine-codeine
• 2013 – Rumors continue to swirl about Justin Beiber’s use of sizzurp, though the singer has denied it.
• 2013 – Lil Wayne was hospitalized with uncontrollable seizures after high doses of codeine were reportedly found in his system.

Have you had any experience with sizzurp or its users? Let us hear of your experience in the comments below.