The invention relates to the use of compounds to ameliorate or treat a condition such as a cystic fibrosis, neutropenia or other exemplified conditions. Exemplary compounds that can be used include 3β,7β-dihydroxy-17-(3-pyridyl)-androst-5,16-diene and other androst-5,16-diene compounds substituted at the 17-position with a heterocycle moiety and at the 3- and 7-positions with a hydroxyl, ester, ether or other disclosed moiety.