The heterogeneous catalytic hydrogenation of 1-methyl-2-pyrrole ethano
l resulted in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidine ethanol, an important and valuabl
e pharmaceutical intermediate. In non-acidic medium, with carbon suppo
rted palladium catalyst, applying solvent mixtures and mild reaction c
onditions (6 bar, 80 degrees C) high conversion and selectivity were o
btained. This hydrogenation is part of a newly developed and industria
lly feasible synthesis.