One method involves the condensation of acetaldehyde and ammonia in the presence of an oxide catalyst.

The conversion is achieved by condensation with formaldehyde: The copolymer of 2-vinylpyridine, butadiene and styrene is used as an adhesive for textile tire cord.

Oxidation by potassium permanganate affords picolinic acid:[1] Treatment of 2-methylpyridine with butyllithium results in deprotonation of the methyl group:[4] Like other pyridine derivatives, 2-methylpyridine is often reported as an environmental contaminant associated with facilities processing oil shale or coal, and has also been found at legacy wood treatment sites.

[5] Arthrobacter and closely related Actinomycetota are often found associated with degradation of pyridine derivatives and other nitrogen heterocyclic compounds.

[6] 2-Methylpyridine is an intermediate used in the production of some pharmaceutical drugs including amprolium, picoplatin, dimethindene, and encainide.