The invention provides methods for treating, delaying, and preventing pathological conditions caused by pore-forming toxins such as anthrax toxin, α-hemolysin toxin, and ε-toxin using a class of low molecular weight compounds that block the pore formed by these toxins. Specific compounds useful for treating, preventing, or delaying a disease condition caused by Bacillus anthracis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridium perfringens are identified.