Sul-121 hydrochloride is a novel compound with anti-oxidative capacity that effectively inhibits airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness (AHR) in experimental models of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Sul-121 hydrochloride prevents lipopolysaccharide-induced airway neutrophilia and AHR in a dose-dependent manner. Sul-121 hydrochloride also demonstrates the ability to reduce oxidative stress markers in human airway smooth muscle cells. Sul-121 hydrochloride inhibits nuclear translocation of the NF-κB subunit, p65, thereby diminishing pro-inflammatory cytokine release.