A 26-year-old died late Sunday evening in Alessano, province of Lecce, while celebrating his birthday with some friends on the street near his home. According to the carabinieri's reconstruction, the individual inhaled nitrous oxide, also known as the "laughter drug", through a balloon and became unwell instantly. Despite the efforts of 118, the rescuers were unable to save him. The body was taken to the Vito Fazzi Hospital in Lecce. Nitrous oxide, also known as "laughing gas", is widely employed in medical and industrial contexts. However, it is also inhaled for its euphoric and hallucinatory properties, which is not advised because it can induce serious side effects and, in extreme situations, death. Inhaling this gas, particularly in large volumes or over long periods of time, poses serious health concerns. Nitrous oxide should only be used under medical supervision and in safe conditions. Recreational or unsupervised use can have severe repercussions.