[en] We have reviewed comprehensively the data on the transverse momentum spectra (p_T) of high mass lepton pairs produced in hadronic interations. The data are extensively compared with the predictions of Quantum Chromo Dynamics to O(α_s), including some O(α_s2) effects through the use of a p_T independent K factor. Sensitivity of the calculations to variations in the parameters used is discussed. A compilation of the K factor is given. Possible nuclear effects which can contribute to cross section or alter differential distributions in p_T, x_F or mass for the dimuon production in nuclear targets are discussed. Linear fits to the data on < p_T2> vs s and < p_T> vs √s for π^-N and pN reations are presented. Using the average value of the intrinsic transverse momentum squared deduced from fits to < p_T2> vs s, predictions of the QCD are calculated and compared with the data. An important conclusion arrived at is that QCD to O(α_s) is not able to account for the observed features of the p_T distributions in a satisfactory manner