The present invention generally relates to compositions containing chemical compounds and compositions and pharmaceutical formulations of the compounds which increase the expression of total hemoglobin or globin protein such as embryonic or fetal globin, or the proliferation of hemoglobin expressing and other blood cells. These compositions can be used to treat or prevent the symptoms associated with anemia, sickle cell diseases, thalassemia, and other blood cell deficiencies and blood disorders. The invention also relates to methods for administering these compositions to subjects and for use as medical aids for the treatment and prevention of blood and other disorders.