Methods of using apogossypol and its derivatives for treating inflammation is disclosed. Also, there is described a group of compounds having structure A, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, N-oxide, or solvate thereof are provided: wherein each R is independently selected from the group consisting of H, C(O)X, C(O)NHX, NH(CO)X, SO2NHX, and NHSO2X, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of an alkyl, a substituted alkyl, an aryl, a substituted aryl, an alkylaryl, and a heterocycle. Compounds of group A may be used for treating various diseases or disorders, such as cancer.
