Esters of N-tert-butylarterenol. Long-acting new bronchodilators with reduced cardiac effects.

The preparation of various esters of N-tert-butylarterenol is described. Esterification of the phenolic OH groups has increased bioavailability, prolonged bronchodilation, and reduced tachycardia. The substitution of aromatic esters compared with simple aliphatic esters improved markedly these pharmacological properties. Of a number of esters tested, compound 45 (bitolterol) demonstrated the most favorable pharmacological properties as a bronchodilator. Its long duration of action and significant bronchodilator-cardiovascular separation are briefly described.