The syndrome of heart failure is characterized by increased levels of circulating inflammatory mediators, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of heart failure. Recently, a number of studies have suggested that statins may exert salutary effects in patients who have heart failure by virtue of their pleiotropic (non-lipid lowering) actions. This article focuses on the non-lipid lowering effects of statins, with an emphasis on the anti-inflammatory properties of these agents.