The invention relates to a sulfur-containing compounds of formula 1, wherein R 2 is S or SO 2 and R 1 , R 3 and R 4 are as defined in the claims, and the preparation thereof. The invention also relates to the uses of the sulfur-containing compounds in inhibiting inducible nitric oxide synthase and/or cyclooxygenase-2 and in treating the diseases associated with inducible nitric oxide synthase and/or cyclooxygenase-2.