Cardioselective beta-adrenergic blocking agents. 1. 1-((3,4-Dimethoxyphenethyl)amino)-3-aryloxy-2-propanols

A series of 1-amino-3-aryloxy-2-propanols has been synthesized and examined for cardioselective beta-blockade. The introduction of the (3,4-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino group lead to the most cardioselective agents. Structure-activity relationships are discussed. Of the compounds tested 1-[(3,4-dimethoxyphenethyl)amino]-3-(m-tolyloxy)-2-propanol was selected for clinical trial because of optimal potency and selectivity.