Synthesis and pharmacology of potential beta-blockers

Several 1-(4-substituted phenoxyl)-2-hydroxy-3-isopropylaminopropanes and 1-(4-substituted phenoxy)-2-hydroxy-3-[3,4-dimethoxyphenethyl]aminopropanes were synthesized for possible beta-adrenergic receptor blockage. The compounds were synthesized by reaction of the 4-substituted phenol with epichlorohydrin and subsequent opening of the resulting epoxide with either N-isopropylamine or N-3,4-dimethoxyphenethylamine. Preliminary biological testing indicated a decrease in the beta-blocking potency and the duration of action.