Stable heavy isotopes of hydrogen, carbon, and other elements have been incorporated into drug molecules, largely as tracers for quantitation during the drug development process. Deuteration has gained attention because of its potential to affect the pharmacokinetic and metabolic profiles of drugs[1].
References:
[1]. Russak EM, et al. Impact of Deuterium Substitution on the Pharmacokinetics of Pharmaceuticals. Ann Pharmacother. 2019;53(2):211-216.
[2]. Kuwahara, K., et al., Carteolol hydrochloride protects human corneal epithelial cells from UVB-induced damage in vitro. Cornea, 2005. 24(2): p. 213-20.
[3]. Trinquand, C., et al., [Efficacy and safety of long-acting carteolol 1% once daily. A double-masked, randomized study]. J Fr Ophtalmol, 2003. 26(2): p. 131-6.