The side effects of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) inhibitors for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) include gastrointestinal toxicity, leukocytosis, differentiation syndrome and QT prolongation, among many others. Here, Eytan Stein, MD, from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, explains how these side effects are minimal and well tolerated in most patients. Dr Stein highlights how differentiation syndrome, characterized by symptoms such as unexplained fever, weight gain and peripheral edema, should be addressed immediately with high doses of steroids. This interview was recorded at the 2018 European School of Hematology (ESH) Clinical Updates on Acute Leukemias, held in Budapest, Hungary.