Spectrum of Pleiotropic Effects of Statins in Heart Failure

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.