Selective PDE4 inhibition is achieved by novel compounds, e.g., 4-(substituted-phenyl)-2-pyrrolidinone compounds. The compounds of the present invention are of formula I: ##STR00001## wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, and R.sup.3 are as defined herein. The disclosure also relates to methods of preparing such compounds, compositions containing such compounds, and methods of use thereof.