HS Code Subheading

Alkaloids; of rye ergot and their derivatives, ergotamine (INN) and its salts

2939.62 Subheading
Section VI — Products of the chemical or allied industries

About HS Code 293962

This HS code is dedicated to ergotamine (INN) and its salts, which are potent alkaloids extracted from the ergot fungus. Ergotamine is primarily used in medicine for the acute treatment of migraine headaches, often in combination with caffeine. Its vasoconstrictive properties help alleviate migraine symptoms. However, due to its potential for abuse and its role as a precursor in the illicit synthesis of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ergotamine is a highly controlled substance globally, listed under international drug control conventions. Trade is therefore restricted to licensed pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, with stringent requirements for import/export permits, security, and record-keeping. Importers and exporters must navigate complex international regulations and national drug enforcement agency requirements. The purity and specific salt form (e.g., tartrate) are critical for pharmaceutical applications.

Products Under This Code

Ergotamine tartrate, Ergotamine base, Dihydroergotamine mesylate (a derivative, often classified here or closely related), Ergotamine hydrochloride

Real World Examples

Cafergot (Novartis - ergotamine/caffeine combination), D.H.E. 45 (dihydroergotamine mesylate), Migranal Nasal Spray (dihydroergotamine)

Common Misclassification

This code is specific to ergotamine and its salts; it is crucial not to confuse it with ergometrine (293961) or lysergic acid (293963), as all are ergot alkaloids but have different regulatory controls and uses.

Products Classified Under 2939.62

Industry

This code belongs to the Chemicals industry.

Trade Overview

Due to strict controls, legitimate trade is concentrated among pharmaceutical companies in countries with advanced regulatory frameworks, such as the USA, Switzerland, and some EU nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 293962?

HS code 293962 covers: Alkaloids; of rye ergot and their derivatives, ergotamine (INN) and its salts. This HS code is dedicated to ergotamine (INN) and its salts, which are potent alkaloids extracted from the ergot fungus. Ergotamine is primarily used in medicine for the acute treatment of migraine headaches, often in combination with caffeine. Its vasoconstrictive properties help alleviate migraine symptoms. However, due to its potential for abuse and its role as a precursor in the illicit synthesis of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ergotamine is a highly controlled substance globally, listed under international drug control conventions. Trade is therefore restricted to licensed pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors, with stringent requirements for import/export permits, security, and record-keeping. Importers and exporters must navigate complex international regulations and national drug enforcement agency requirements. The purity and specific salt form (e.g., tartrate) are critical for pharmaceutical applications.

What products fall under HS code 293962?

Ergotamine tartrate, Ergotamine base, Dihydroergotamine mesylate (a derivative, often classified here or closely related), Ergotamine hydrochloride

What are common misclassifications for HS code 293962?

This code is specific to ergotamine and its salts; it is crucial not to confuse it with ergometrine (293961) or lysergic acid (293963), as all are ergot alkaloids but have different regulatory controls and uses.

How is HS code 293962 structured?

HS code 293962 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (29) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (39) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (62) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.