.beta.1-Selective adrenoceptor antagonists. 2. 4-Ether-linked phenoxypropanolamines

A series of 4-substituted phenoxypropanolamines was prepared and examined for beta-adrenoceptor activity. Some of the compounds, especially the [4-[2-[[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl] oxy]ethoxy]phenoxy]propanolamines (14, 15, and 24), showed potent beta 1-blockade with virtually no beta 2-blockade at doses over a 1000 times greater. The compounds also possessed partial agonist activity. Structure-activity relationships are discussed, and conclusions are drawn about the binding sites on beta-adrenoceptors.