HQ 084256: Classification of Alprazolam

Native CBP ruling rendition. Applicability is fact-specific; modification/revocation relationships and original publisher date are retained. Publisher sentinel year0001 means unknown date, not a historical legal adoption.

                                      HQ 084256

                                    July 19, 1989


          CLA-2 CO:R:C:G  084256  SS; 838805 NY

          CATEGORY:  Classification

          TARIFF NO. : 2933.90.3300

          RE:  Classification of Alprazolam

          Ms. Joan von Doehren
          Interchem Corporation
          120 Route 17 North
          Suite 115
          Paramus, NJ 07652

          Dear Ms. von Doehren:

                This letter is in response to your request of March 20,
          1989, for a classification ruling for Alprazolam imported from
          Finland, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United
          States.  In a separate letter, NYRL 838805, the New York office
          issued a ruling for Crotamiton imported from Italy, as also
          requested in your letter.

          FACTS:

                The item under consideration is a drug, Alprazolam, which
          belongs to the benzodiazepine class of central nervous system
          active compounds.

          ISSUE:

                Whether Alprazolam is properly classifiable under
          subheading 2933.90.33, HTSUS, which provides for antidepressants,
          tranquilizers and other psychotherapeutic agents: Other, or under
          subheading 2933.90.34, HTSUS, which provides for Anticonvulsants,
          hypnotics and sedatives.

          LAW AND ANALYSIS:

                Classification under the HTSUS is governed by the General
          Rules of Interpretation (GRI's).  GRI 1 provides that
          classification is determined first in accordance with the terms
          of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter notes.
















                                         -2-


                Use of the drug under consideration is indicated for the
          management of anxiety disorders or short term relief of the
          symptoms of anxiety.  Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR),(1989), at
          2190.  Benzodiazepines act as central nervous system depressants
          resulting in a quieting or calming effect on the patient.  The
          Product Category Index of the PDR lists Alprazolam (Xanax) as a
          tranquilizer belonging to a class of benzodiazepine central
          nervous system active compounds.

          HOLDING:

                Alprazolam is classifiable under the provision for
          tranquilizers in subheading 2933.90.3300, HTSUS; dutiable at a
          rate of 16.6 percent ad valorem.

                NYRL Ruling 834845 modified accordingly


                                  Sincerely,



                                  John Durant, Director
                                  Commercial Rulings Division