Compositions and methods including Bithionol are provided for treating, inhibiting, or preventing caspase-dependent pathogenic agents in a host cell or infected subject. Examples of caspase-dependent pathogenic agents include ricin, anthrax toxin, Botulinum neurotoxin A, diphtheria toxin, Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A, cholera toxin, Zika virus, and combinations thereof. Compositions and methods also include Bithionol in combination with an antibiotic for more effective clearance of the pathogen and/or toxins.
