The invention provides the use of an optionally hydroxy-protected 4-hydroxyo or hydroperoxy-3,5-dioxopyrazolidine or an equivalent wherein a pyrazolidine ring attached oxygen is replaced by a sulphur, or a physiologically acceptable salt thereof, for the manufacture of a medicament for use in therapy or prophylaxis. Additionally, the invention provides a method of combating HIV infection which comprises administering to an HIV-infected patient a T-lymphocyte growth suppressing agent, preferably a pyrazolidinol, in an amount sufficient to suppress T-lymphocyte growth in said patient for a period sufficient to reduce the T-lymphocyte concentration in lymph nodes in said patient by at least 25%, said administration being repeated at intervals of at least 3 months.