A method of inhibiting TNF-.alpha. or IL-1.beta. expression with a
compound of the following formula: 1
wherein each of R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, and R.sub.4, independently, is
H, alkyl, aryl, or alkylcarbonyl, or R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 together, or
R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 together are --(CH.sub.2).sub.n--, n being 1, 2, or
3. Also disclosed is a method of treating a TNF-.alpha. or IL-1.beta.
related disorder using such a compound.
