Alterations of redox homeostasis in mammals underlie a host of symptoms, syndromes and diseases, including AIDS and cancer, which can be successfully treated by administration to a mammal of therapeutically-effective amounts of sulfide compounds and/or thiosulfate compounds and/or thionite compounds and/or sulfite compounds and/or thionate compounds and/or any organic, inorganic or organometallic precursors thereof. The unique compositions of this invention contain one or more "active sulfur compounds" in combination with each other or with other therapeutic agents. The invention also encompasses the varying modes of administration of the therapeutic compounds. In particular, a novel method of combining active ingredient with wet cellulose is provided, which allows the wet cellulose to function as an enteric carrier.