N.H. gov. declares emergency after synthetic drug overdoses

CONCORD, N.H. - The governor of New Hampshire has declared a state of emergency following a sudden spike in overdoses from people ingesting a synthetic drug called "Smacked," reports CBS Boston.

Police and EMT's responded to medical emergencies at several parks last week. In Manchester, N.H., at least 41 people experienced serious medical reactions since August 11 and at least 20 were taken by ambulance to local hospitals, reports the station.

"People are lethargic, have elevated heart rates, and seizures," said police chief David Mara.

"Smacked" is a packaged mixture of spices sprayed with a synthetic drug similar to the active ingredient in marijuana. It's usually smoked to get a high.

"'You don't know what you're getting, there's no FDA check, and it's sold under the pretense of being potpourri [dried plant material]," said chief Mara.

He believes what he calls a "bad batch" made its way into the market and is being sold at convenience stores. The state of emergency from the governor will help police confiscate the drug from the stores and raise awareness. Manchester police have already shut down three stores they say have not cooperated, reports the station.

Chief Mara says a criminal investigation has begun to determine where the product is coming from.