Inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3methylglytaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase or statins are effective lipid lowering drugswidely used in cardiovascular disease. In the recent years, pleotropic effects of statins have been reported, which include anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. This review discusses the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory roles of statins and their possible use for the treatment of other inflammatory diseases or conditions with the involvement of the immune system. (c) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.