Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of new compounds with a potential action on the adrenergic system

A series of compounds with a potential activity on both alpha and beta-adrenoreceptors were synthesized and evaluated with in vitro and in vivo tests. Aryloxypropanolamino derivatives N-substituted with alpha 2-benzodioxanylmethyl group showed a favourable alpha/beta ratio and a high selectivity towards beta 1 receptors. Substitution with different aralkyl groups afforded compounds with a low alpha-activity, although with a high potency and selectivity towards beta 1 receptors. The results are discussed on the basis of the working hypothesis and compared with those obtained for reference compounds.