Jenkem Drug Use: What You Need to Know About Its Effects and Risks

Substance abuse can take many dangerous forms, and inhalants are among the most harmful. One particularly alarming inhalant is Jenkem—a toxic substance made from human waste. While its prevalence is highly debated, the health risks are severe, making it crucial to understand Jenkem drug dangers and seek professional help if needed. Resurgence Behavioral Health in California offers expert addiction treatment to help individuals overcome inhalant abuse safely and effectively.

What Is Jenkem?

Jenkem is an inhalant made by fermenting human waste, releasing toxic gases like methane and hydrogen sulfide. These fumes are inhaled to produce hallucinogenic and euphoric effects. Reports of Jenkem use first surfaced in the early 2000s, raising concerns among parents and health officials.

While some believe its use is exaggerated, the risks are real. Inhaling Jenkem can cause severe neurological, respiratory, and gastrointestinal damage. Due to its hazardous composition, using Jenkem even once can have life-threatening consequences.

Unlike other inhalants that originate from household chemicals or industrial solvents, Jenkem’s biological nature makes it particularly dangerous. The inhalation of waste gases exposes users to bacteria, viruses, and toxins that can cause infections and poisoning. While some reports suggest that Jenkem drug use is more common in impoverished regions, the internet has fueled curiosity about the drug worldwide, leading to growing concerns about experimentation among adolescents and young adults.

At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we offer comprehensive treatment programs designed to help individuals safely recover from substance abuse and avoid the serious health risks associated with inhalant use.

Why Is Jenkem Considered a Dangerous Drug?

Jenkem poses a unique set of health risks due to its biological origin and the presence of hazardous gases. The inhalation of methane, hydrogen sulfide, and other harmful compounds can cause immediate and long-term damage to the body and brain.

Some of the most severe risks associated with Jenkem use include:

• Brain Damage: Inhalants deprive the brain of oxygen, leading to significant brain cell loss. Jenkem’s toxic composition can intensify these effects, potentially resulting in irreversible cognitive decline. Resurgence Behavioral Health provides evidence-based therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help address the neurological impacts of inhalant abuse.
• Respiratory Issues: The inhalation of methane and hydrogen sulfide can cause severe breathing problems, including lung inflammation, chronic bronchitis, and suffocation in extreme cases. Medical detoxification ensures a safe and monitored withdrawal process.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Exposure to human waste gases can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The bacteria and pathogens present in the waste also pose a significant risk of infection. Dual-diagnosis treatment at Resurgence addresses both the physical and psychological effects of substance use disorders.
• Hallucinations and Psychological Effects: Users report experiencing vivid hallucinations, confusion, and mood disturbances. These effects can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, leading to risky behaviors or self-harm. Our inpatient and outpatient treatment options provide structured support to individuals experiencing mental distress due to substance abuse.
• Toxicity and Poisoning: Hydrogen sulfide is a known toxic gas that can cause dizziness, unconsciousness, and even death at high concentrations. Prolonged exposure can lead to neurological symptoms, including memory loss and impaired motor function. Seeking professional addiction treatment can prevent life-threatening consequences.

The combination of these risks makes Jenkem one of the most hazardous substances, with no known safe level of use. Unlike other inhalants that may have some level of industrial regulation, Jenkem is entirely unregulated and composed of dangerous biological waste, further amplifying the risks of contamination and poisoning.

How Does Jenkem Compare to Other Inhalants in Terms of Risks?

Inhalants, as a category, are highly dangerous as they involve the direct inhalation of toxic substances that can cause immediate and long-term damage to the body. Common inhalants include household products such as glue, paint thinners, aerosol sprays, and nitrous oxide. Compared to these substances, Jenkem is uniquely dangerous due to its bacterial and viral contamination risks.

Here’s how Jenkem stacks up against other common inhalants:

• Toxicity: While substances like toluene (found in glue and paint thinners) and nitrous oxide are toxic, Jenkem introduces an additional layer of danger due to its biological composition. Methane and hydrogen sulfide are highly toxic gases, and their inhalation can lead to fatal poisoning. Resurgence Behavioral Health provides personalized treatment plans to address the unique risks associated with different inhalants.
• Infection Risk: Most inhalants do not carry the risk of bacterial or viral infections. Jenkem, however, exposes users to harmful pathogens that can lead to severe illnesses, including gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. Professional medical supervision is essential for managing these complications.
• Hallucinogenic Effects: While some inhalants, such as nitrous oxide, can produce mild hallucinogenic effects, Jenkem is known for causing intense, prolonged hallucinations that can lead to unpredictable behavior and severe mental distress. Behavioral therapy programs help patients cope with lingering psychological effects.
• Long-Term Neurological Damage: All inhalants carry a risk of brain damage, but the methane and hydrogen sulfide in Jenkem are particularly concerning due to their neurotoxic properties. Chronic exposure can lead to memory impairment, motor dysfunction, and cognitive decline. Our comprehensive addiction recovery program includes therapy and wellness strategies to aid in cognitive rehabilitation.

Given these factors, Jenkem is arguably one of the most hazardous inhalants. The combination of toxic gases, infection risks, and severe psychological effects makes it particularly dangerous, even when compared to other well-known inhalants.

Can Jenkem Use Lead to Addiction?

While there is limited research on the addictive properties of Jenkem, it is well-documented that inhalants, in general, have addictive potential. The rapid onset of euphoria and hallucinations can create a psychological dependence, leading individuals to repeatedly seek out the substance despite its dangers.
Signs of inhalant addiction include both physical and behavioral changes that can indicate a growing dependence on the substance. These may manifest as:

• Cravings for the substance
• Continued use despite negative consequences
• Increased frequency of use
• Neglect of responsibilities and relationships
• Withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, and mood swings
• Secretive behavior or attempts to hide inhalant use
• Sudden changes in social circles or isolation from loved ones
• Frequent nosebleeds, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue

The psychological dependence on Jenkem is particularly concerning because of the extreme dangers associated with its use. Unlike other inhalants that might be more readily available in household or industrial settings, Jenkem’s use requires individuals to expose themselves to unsanitary and hazardous conditions, further demonstrating the compulsive nature of the addiction.

At Resurgence Behavioral Health, we understand the complexities of addiction and provide holistic treatment programs that address both the physical and psychological aspects of substance use. With medical detox, inpatient and outpatient treatment, behavioral therapy, and aftercare support, as well as a supportive circle outside of rehab, individuals can achieve long-term recovery.

Choose Lasting Recovery at Resurgence Behavioral Health and Learn More About Jenkem Drug Risks

Attending professional treatment rather than trying to quit Jenkem drug use alone is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health, happiness, and future. At Resurgence Behavioral Health in California, we recognize that overcoming addiction is a deeply personal journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Our compassionate, evidence-based programs provide the tools and guidance to help you achieve lasting recovery. You don’t have to face this challenge alone—help is available, and a brighter future is within reach. Call Resurgence Behavioral Health at 855-458-0050 today to take the first step toward a healthier, substance-free life.

External Sources

• National Institute on Drug Abuse – Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts
• Public Health Nigeria – Jenkem: Uses, High, How it is made, Risk, Side Effects
• Bionity.com – Jenkem

David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.

Research | Editorial