The invention relates generally to the use of N-substituted dopamine derivatives for the treatment of diseases and disorders that involve abnormal lipid peroxidation. This method comprises the administration of a pharmaceutically effective amount of N-acetyldopamine derivatives or N-alkyldopamine derivatives and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for treating an animal or human suffering abnormal lipid peroxidation. The N-acetyldopamine derivative or N-alkyldopamine derivatives may be administered alone or in combination with N-acetylserotonin (NAS) to inhibit lipid peroxidation.