Methods are provided for using doxorubicin active agents in which reduced host toxicity is observed. Aspects of the methods including administering to a subject an effective amount of a doxorubicin active agent in conjunction with a doxorubicin toxicity-reducing adjuvant, e.g., a nitrone compound, or a nitrone compound in combination with a bisdioxopiperazine compound. Also provided are compositions for use in practicing the subject methods. The methods and compositions find use in a variety of different applications, including in the treatment of a variety of different disease conditions.