Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of earnings before income taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of income tax expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Summary of effective tax rate reconciliation Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of unrecognized tax benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Debt, Credit Facilities, and Commitments and Contingencies Summary of long-term debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Summary of future minimum operating lease payments, capital lease payments and debt maturities Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Postemployment Benefits [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Defined benefit plans Pension Plan [Member] Other post-employment plans Other Postretirement Benefits Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items] Discount rate for determining service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Service Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Service Cost, Discount Rate Discount rate for determining interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Interest Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Interest Cost, Discount Rate Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets Expected rate of change in compensation Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Rate of Compensation Increase Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock held in treasury, at cost (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization Of Actuarial Gain (Loss), Prior Service Cost (Credit) The amount of amortization of actuarial losses and prior service costs included in the calculation of net periodic pension benefit cost. Net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Income Statement [Abstract] Net revenues Revenue, Net Cost of products sold Cost of Goods Sold Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development Research and Development Expense (Excluding Acquired in Process Cost) Acquired in-process research and development Research and Development Asset Acquired Other than Through Business Combination, Written-off Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating earnings Operating Income (Loss) Interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Net foreign exchange loss Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Other expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Earnings before income tax expense Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Per share data Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Cash dividends declared per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Weighted-average basic shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Book Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Bases used to measure the approximate fair values of the financial instruments Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Investments Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt, Fair Value Current portion of long-term debt and lease obligations, excluding fair value hedges Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current Fair Value Disclosure Represents the fair value amount of obligation related to long-term debt (excluding convertible debt) and capital leases, the portion which is due in one year or less in the future. Long-term debt and lease obligations, excluding fair value hedges Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Fair Value Disclosure Represents the fair value amount of as of the balance sheet date of all long-term debt, which is debt initially having maturities due after one year from the balance sheet date or beyond the operating cycle, if longer, but excluding the portions thereof scheduled to be repaid within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer plus capital lease obligations due to be paid more than one year after the balance sheet date. Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee Severance Employee Severance [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Accrued balance beginning of the period Restructuring Reserve Restructuring charges Payments and other adjustments Restructuring Reserve Period Cash Settled and Other Adjustments The change in the restructuring reserve related to the amount of cash paid and other adjustments during the period. Accrued balance end of the period Supplemental Financial Information Schedule of interest expense, net Interest Income and Interest Expense Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule of accounts payable and accrued liabilities Schedule of Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of other long-term liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Goodwill Additions (see Note 5) Goodwill, Acquired During Period Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Balance at the end of the period Licensing, Acquisitions, and Other Arrangements Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Alector, Inc. Alector, Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to transactions with Alector, Inc. C2N Diagnostics C2 N Diagnostics [Member] Information relating to C2N Diagnostics. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] IPR&D In Process Research and Development [Member] Research and development Research and Development Expense [Member] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Arrangements And Nonarrangement Transactions [Member] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Collaborative Arrangement Collaborative Arrangement [Member] Other Collaboration Arrangements Other Collaboration Arrangements [Member] Represents information relating to the series of other collaborative arrangements. Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher From United Therapeutics Corporation Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher From United Therapeutics Corporation [Member] Information relating to purchasing of Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher (PPRV) from United Therapeutics Corporation. Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Cash outflows related to other acquisitions and investments Payments to Acquire Other Investments Initial upfront payment Collaborative Arrangements Initial Upfront Payment Represents the initial upfront payment made by the entity in accordance with collaborative arrangements. Research and development expense Research and Development Expense Additional payment Additional Contribution To Acquire In Process Research And Development Collaborations Represents the maximum additional payment for research and early development of collaboration projects. Potential milestone payments Potential Payments under Agreement Certain Milestones The amount of additional payments that could be required for the achievement of certain milestones under a product agreement during the period. Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of basic and diluted earnings per share, impact of two-class method Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Net Investment Hedges Net Investment Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedges Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Pension and post-employment benefits, tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax, Attributable to Parent Marketable security activities, tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Hedging activities, tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Business Combinations [Abstract] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Stemcentrx Stemcentrx Inc. [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisition of Stemcentrx, Inc. BI Boehringer Ingelheim Bi [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisition of Boehringer Ingelheim (BI). Pharmacyclics Pharmacyclics Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to Pharmacyclics, Inc. Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Cost of products sold Cost of Sales [Member] Number of early-stage clinical compounds in solid tumor indications acquired Number of Early-stage Clinical Compounds in Solid Tumor Indications Acquired Represents the number of early-stage clinical compounds in solid tumor indications. Shares issued as consideration (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions Contingent consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Contingent Consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Contingent Consideration Operating loss Acquisition-related compensation expense Business Combination Share Based Compensation Expense Related To Acquisition Represents the amount of compensation expense related to the shares issued under business acquisition. Milestone payments Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Milestone Payments Amount of consideration transferred, consisting of milestone payments. Royalty payments Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Royalty Payments Amount of consideration transferred, consisting of royalty payments. Amortization of step up for inventory Amortization, Acquired Inventory Step Up Amortization, Acquired Inventory Step Up Intangible asset useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Inventory step up and intangible assets amortization Business Combination Inventory Step Up Adjustments And Amortization Of Intangible Assets Represents the amount of fair value adjustments associated with acquisition-related inventory step-up and amortization of intangible assets recorded during the period. Transaction and integration costs Business Combination Transaction And Integration Costs Related To Acquisition Represents the amount of acquisition-related transaction and integration costs recorded during the period. Acquisition related costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Discount rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Rate of compensation increases Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Rate of Compensation Increase Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Statutory tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effect of foreign operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Percent U.S. tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Us Tax Credits Represents the portion of the difference between the effective income tax rate and domestic federal statutory income tax rate attributable to accrual of U.S. tax credits under enacted tax laws. Impacts related to U.S. tax reform Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation Impacts Related to U.S. Tax Reform Effective income tax rate impacts related to U.S. tax reform Tax law change related to foreign currency Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Percent All other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] State And Local Jurisdiction State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Resolution of various tax positions Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority Recognized in Income Tax Expense Amount of (refund) expense recognized in income tax expense from examination settlement with taxing authority. Expense related to tax effect of regulations of foreign operation foreign currency gains Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Amount Tax rate reconciliation due to tax (benefit) or expenses relating to valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Stock Options Employee Stock Option [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Contractual term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Incremental vesting Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Portion of Awards Vesting in Annual Increments Represents the portion of share options (or share units) granted during the period under equity-based awards, which will vest in annual increments. Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Exercise price for awards granted as percentage of market value on the date of grant Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Purchase Price of Common Stock, Percent Weighted-average grant-date fair value of the stock options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Lapsed (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Outstanding at the end of the period (in shares) Exercisable at the end of the period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted- average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Lapsed (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share) Exercisable at the end of the period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted- average remaining life (in years) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term [Abstract] Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Aggregate Intrinsic Value [Abstract] Outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Total fair value of options vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Number of options issued to holders of acquired company's unvested options Number of options issued to holders of acquired company's unvested options Number of share options (or share units) issued to holders of acquired company's unvested options. Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options Period for recognition of unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Measurements Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Bank Time Deposits Bank Time Deposits [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Currency Contract Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Fair value, asset and liability measures Cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Time deposits Debt securities Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Equity securities Available-for-sale Securities Equity securities Interest Rate Derivative Assets, at Fair Value Foreign currency contracts - asset position Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Interest rate hedges Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Foreign currency contracts - liability position Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Shares reserved for issuance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Retirement-eligible employees' age Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Retirement Eligible Age Represents retirement eligible employees' age. Minimum number of years of services Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Retirement Eligible Employees Number Of Years Of Services Represents the minimum of number of years of services that employees have to work for the company in order to be eligible to retire with benefits. Pre-tax compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Tax benefit Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense After-tax compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax Realized excess tax benefits from the exercise of stock options Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Pension and post- employment benefits Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Cash flow hedging activities Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Significant amounts reclassified out of each component of AOCI Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income, before tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, before Tax Tax expense (benefit) Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Tax Total reclassifications, net of tax Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as hedges Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not designated as hedges Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities [Member] Foreign currency forward exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges Interest Rate Swap [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivatives in asset position Derivatives in liability position Licensing, Acquisitions, and Other Arrangements Acquisitions Collaborations and Other Arrangements Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for acquisitions, collaborations and other arrangements of the entity. Restructuring Plans Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measures Derivatives and Fair Value [Text Block] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Stemcentrx and BI Stemcentrx And Rights From Boehringer Ingelheim [Member] Represents the information relating to Stemcentrx and Rights from Boehringer Ingelheim. Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Transfer of assets from level 1 to level 2 Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Transfer of assets from level 2 to level 1 Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Transfer of liabilities from level 1 to level 2 Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Transfer of liabilities from level 2 to level 1 Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliations, Recurring Basis, Liability Value Additions (See Note 5) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Purchases Change in fair value recognized in net earnings Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Milestone payments Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Liability, Settlements Ending balance 2018 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four 2022 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five 2023 to 2027 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter Supplemental Financial Information Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Interest Expense, net Interest Revenue (Expense), Net [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Investment Income, Interest and Dividend Interest expense, net Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Sales rebates Accrued Sales Rebates Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of accrued sales rebates. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Dividends payable Dividends Payable, Current Salaries, wages and commissions Employee-related Liabilities, Current Royalty and license arrangements Accrued Royalties, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Other Long-Term Liabilities Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent [Abstract] Contingent consideration liabilities Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability, Noncurrent Pension and other post-employment benefits Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent Liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities Represents unrecognized tax benefits liabilities. Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent Other Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Equity Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Number of operating segments Number of Operating Segments Number of principal customers Number of Principal US Customers Represents the number of principal U.S. customers of the entity. Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products And Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] HUMIRA H U M I R A [Member] Represents information pertaining to HUMIRA, a product of the entity. IMBRUVICA Imbruvica [Member] Represents information pertaining to Imbruvica, a product of the entity. HCV HCV [Member] Represents information pertaining to HCV, a product portfolio of the entity. Lupron Lupron [Member] Represents information pertaining to Lupron, a product of the entity. Creon Creon [Member] Represents information pertaining to Creon, a product of the entity. Synagis Synagis [Member] Represents information pertaining to Synagis, a product of the entity. Synthroid Synthroid [Member] Represents information pertaining to Synthroid, a product of the entity. AndroGel Andro Gel [Member] Represents information pertaining to AndroGel, a product of the entity. Kaletra Kaletra [Member] Represents information pertaining to Kaletra, a product of the entity. Sevoflurane Sevoflurane [Member] Represents information pertaining to Sevoflurane, a product of the entity. Duodopa Duodopa [Member] Represents information pertaining to Duodopa, a product of the entity. All other Other Products [Member] Represents information pertaining to other products of the entity not specified anywhere. Segment Information Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Projected benefit obligations Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Benefit Obligation [Roll Forward] Beginning of period Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Employee contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Contributions by Plan Participant Actuarial loss Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Actuarial Gain (Loss) Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Benefits Paid Other, primarily foreign currency translation adjustments Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) End of period Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Change in Fair Value of Plan Assets [Roll Forward] Beginning of period Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) Company contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Employee contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Plan Participant Benefits paid Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Benefits Paid Other, primarily foreign currency translation adjustments Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) End of period Funded status, end of period Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheets Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Other assets Assets for Plan Benefits, Defined Benefit Plan Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Current Other long-term liabilities Net obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts for Asset (Liability) Recognized in Statement of Financial Position Actuarial loss, net Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), after Tax Prior service cost (credit) Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, Prior Service Cost (Credit), after Tax Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table] Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] AbbVie sponsored plans Reporting Entity Sponsor [Member] The entity or group whose financial statements are being referred to. Abbott Laboratories Abbott Laboratories [Member] Represents information pertaining to Abbott Laboratories. Separation Agreement Separation Agreement [Member] Represents information pertaining to the separation agreement. Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items] Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items] Number of wholesalers Percentage of outstanding common stock distributed Percentage of Outstanding Common Stock Distributed Represents the percentage of outstanding common stock distributed to shareholders. Separation related expenses Separation Related Expenses Represents the amount of separation-related expenses, including legal, information technology and regulatory fees, incurred by the entity. Net revenues Net Revenues Related to Operations for which Legal Transfer did Not Occur with Separation of Entity Represents the amount of net revenues related to operations for which legal transfer did not occur with the separation of the entity. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] AOCI Attributable to Parent AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Net investment hedging activities Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) From Net Investment Hedges Attributable To Parent [Member] Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) From Net Investment Hedges Attributable To Parent [Member] Marketable security activities Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications OCI, before Reclassifications, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net losses (gains) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification from AOCI, Current Period, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Ending balance Currency translation adjustment reclassification from AOCI tax impact Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, Tax Accounting Policies [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property Plant And Equipment Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Land Land [Member] Buildings Building [Member] Equipment Equipment [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Estimated useful lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Amortization period of software costs included in equipment Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period Depreciation expense Depreciation Collaboration with Janssen Biotech, Inc. No definition available. Janssen Biotech, Inc Janssen Biotech Inc [Member] Represents the information pertains to the entity Janssen Biotech Inc. Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] United States UNITED STATES Outside of United States Non-US [Member] Milestone payments Collaborative Arrangement Milestone Method Payments Receivable The maximum milestone payments that may be received by the entity based on the achievement of specified events under a collaborative arrangement. Share of collaboration development costs responsible by Janssen Collaborative Arrangements Percentage Of Share Of Development Costs Responsible By Third Party Represents the percentage of share in collaboration development costs responsible by Janssen under cost sharing arrangement. Share of collaboration development costs responsible by the entity Collaborative Arrangements Percentage Of Share Of Development Costs Represents the percentage of share in collaboration development costs responsible by the entity under cost sharing arrangement. United States - Janssen's share of profits (included in cost of products sold) Collaborative Arrangements Payment To Other Party As Share Of Profits Before Income Taxes Represents the amount paid or to be paid to other party as profit sharing in the contract which is recorded as expense for the company. International - AbbVie's share of profits (included in net revenues) Collaborative Arrangements Share Of Profits Before Income Taxes Represents the amount of share of profits before income taxes under the collaborative arrangements. Global - AbbVie's share of other costs (included in respective line items) Cost Sharing Expenses Represents cost sharing expenses. Deferred tax assets Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Compensation and employee benefits Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits Accruals and reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Chargebacks and rebates Chargebacks and rebates Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible chargebacks and rebates. Deferred revenue Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Net operating losses and other credit carryforwards Net operating losses and other credit carryforwards Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible operating loss and other tax credit carryforwards. Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Excess of book basis over tax basis of intangible assets Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Excess of book basis over tax basis in investments Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investments Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Tax Credit Carryforward [Table] Tax Credit Carryforward [Table] U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act [Member] As a direct result of U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Foreign Country Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] U.S. federal corporate tax rate Operating loss carryforwards Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax credit carryforwards Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Operating loss carryforwards with expiration between 2018 and 2023 Operating Loss Carryforwards With Expiration Amount of operating loss carryforward with expiration day between 2018 and 2023, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Current income taxes receivable Income Taxes Receivable, Current Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 2.00% notes due 2018 Senior Notes Due In 2018 At 2.00 Percent [Member] Represents the 2.00 percent long-term notes, which are due in 2018. 2.90% notes due 2022 Senior Notes Due In 2022 At 2.90 Percent [Member] Represents the 2.90 percent long-term notes, which are due in 2022. 4.40% notes due 2042 Senior Notes Due In 2042 At 4.40 Percent [Member] Represents the 4.40 percent long-term notes, which are due in 2042. 1.80% notes due 2018 Senior Notes Due In 2018 At 1.80 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2018 At 1.80 Percent. 2.50% notes due 2020 Senior Notes Due In 2020 At 2.50 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2020 At 2.50 Percent 3.20% notes due 2022 Senior Notes Due In 2022 At 3.20 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2022 At 3.20 Percent. 3.60% notes due 2025 Senior Notes Due In 2025 At 3.60 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2025 At 3.60 Percent. 4.50% notes due 2035 Senior Notes Due In 2035 At 4.50 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2035 At 4.50 Percent. 4.70% notes due 2045 Senior Notes Due In 2045 At 4.70 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2045 At 4.70 Percent. 2.30% notes due 2021 Senior Notes 2.30 Percent Due 2021 [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 2.30% Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2021. 2.85% notes due 2023 Senior Notes 2.85 Percent Due 2023 [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 2.85% Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2023. 3.20% notes due 2026 Senior Notes 3.20 Percent Due 2026 [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 3.20% Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2026. 4.30% notes due 2036 Senior Notes 4.30 Percent Due 2036 [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 4.30% Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2036. 4.45% notes due 2046 Senior Notes 4.45 Percent Due 2046 [Member] Represents information pertaining to the 4.45% Unsecured Senior Notes Due 2046. 0.38% notes due 2019 (€1,400 principal) Senior Euro Notes 0.38 Percent Due 2019 [Member] Senior Euro Notes 0.38 Percent Due 2019 [Member] 1.38% notes due 2024 (€1,450 principal) Senior Euro Notes 1.38 Percent Due 2024 [Member] Senior Euro Notes 1.38 Percent Due 2024 [Member] 2.13% notes due 2028 (€750 principal) Senior Euro Notes 2.13 Percent Due 2028 [Member] Senior Euro Notes 2.13 Percent Due 2028 [Member] Floating rate notes due 2018 Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2018 [Member] Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2018. Other Other Long Term Debt [Member] Represents information pertaining to other long-term debts. Debt, Credit Facilities, and Commitments and Contingencies Debt Instrument [Line Items] Weighted-average effective interest rate Long-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Long-term debt and lease obligations, gross Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Gross Amount of long-term debt and capital lease obligations due after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer, before deduction of fair value hedges and unamortized discount. Fair value hedges Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Fair Value Hedges Represents the amount of fair value hedging, as on the balance sheet date. Unamortized bond discounts Long Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt Instrument Unamortized Discounts Represents the amount of debt discount that was originally recognized at the issuance of the instrument that has yet to be amortized, as on the balance sheet date. Unamortized deferred financing costs Long Term Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Debt Instrument Unamortized Financing Costs Represents the amount of deferred financing costs that was originally recognized at the issuance of the instrument that has yet to be amortized, as on the balance sheet date. Total long-term debt and lease obligations Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Current portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Noncurrent portion Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Interest rate percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Principal amount of debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Third Party Financial Institution Third Party Financial Institution [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the accelerated share repurchase agreement (ASR) with third party financial institution. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC Morgan Stanley Co Llc [Member] Represents the information relating to repurchase agreement (ASR) with Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC (Morgan Stanley) on May 26, 2015. Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Commercial Paper Commercial Paper [Member] Senior Euro Notes Senior Euro Notes [Member] Senior Euro Notes [Member] 1.75% notes due 2017 Senior Notes Due In 2017 At 1.75 Percent [Member] Represents the 1.75 percent long-term notes, which are due in 2017. Floating rate notes due 2016 Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2016 [Member] Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2016. Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2015 Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In2015 [Member] Represents the long-term variable rate notes, which are due in 2015. Bridge Loan Bridge Loan [Member] Long Term Notes Issued In 2012 Long Term Notes Issued In2012 [Member] Senior notes issued in 2012 which includes series of senior notes as disclosed in the financial statements. Short-term Debt [Line Items] Short-term Debt [Line Items] Debt issuance costs Debt Issuance Costs, Gross Debt discounts incurred Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt repayments Early Repayment of Senior Debt Debt redemption charge Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Debt redemption charge, net of tax Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Debt proceeds, net Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Proceeds used to finance acquisition Proceeds Used To Finance Acquisition Represents the proceeds from debt instrument used to finance the acquisition. Proceeds used to finance share repurchase Proceeds Used To Finance Share Repurchase Program Represents the proceeds from debt instrument used to finance the accelerated share repurchase program. Term loan amount Debt term Debt Instrument, Term Repayment Repayments of Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Notes issued Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Debt redemption period Debt Instrument, Redemption Period Debt Instrument, Redemption Period Proceeds from debt issued to pay acquisition Proceeds From Debt Issued To Pay Acquisition Proceeds from debt issued to pay acquisition. Proceeds from debt issued to financing Proceeds From Debt Issued To Financing Proceeds from debt issued to financing a transaction. Amount drawn Line Of Credit Facility Drawn Amount Represents line of credit facility drawn amount. Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Weighted-average interest rate (as a percent) Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit agreement outstanding Long-term Line of Credit Lease expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Post-Employment Benefits Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Developed product rights Developed Technology Rights [Member] License agreements Licensing Agreements [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Indefinite-lived research and development Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total intangible assets gross carrying amount Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Total intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Summary of the cash activity in the restructuring reserve Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Actuarial loss (gain) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization Of Actuarial (Gain) Loss And Prior Service Cost (Credit), before Tax Represents the adjustment out of other comprehensive income for amortization of prior service cost and actuarial gains losses recognized during the period, before tax. Foreign exchange gain (loss) Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income Foreign Exchange Gain (Loss) before Tax Represents the adjustment out of other comprehensive income for foreign exchange gains (losses) recognized during the period, before tax. Total pre-tax loss (gain) recognized in other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Common stock Common Stock [Member] Treasury stock Treasury Stock [Member] Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive loss Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance (in shares) Shares, Outstanding Net earnings Other comprehensive loss, net of tax Dividends declared Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Common shares issued to stockholders in acquisition Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Common shares issued to stockholders in acquisition (in shares) Purchases of treasury stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Purchases of treasury stock (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Stock-based compensation plans and other Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Stock-based compensation plans and other (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Ending balance (in shares) Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Depakote Depakote [Member] Represents information concerning Depakote-related claims. Patent Litigation Patent Litigation [Member] Represents information pertaining to litigation related to patent disputes. Allegation Of Proposed Generic Products Infringing Patents And Seeking Declaratory And Injunctive Relief Allegation Of Proposed Generic Products Infringing Patents And Seeking Declaratory And Injunctive Relief [Member] Represents information pertaining to allegation of proposed generic products infringing the entity's patents and seeking declaratory and injunctive relief. Punitive Damages PunitiveDamages [Member] Punitive damages Compensatory Damages CompensatoryDamages [Member] Compensatory damages Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case Type [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Andro Gel Antitrust Litigation Andro Gel Antitrust Litigation [Member] Represents information pertaining to AndroGel Antitrust Litigation. Niaspan Niaspan [Member] Represents information pertaining to Niaspan, a product of the entity. Testosterone Replacement Therapy Products Liability Litigation Testosterone Replacement Therapy Products Liability Litigation [Member] Information relating to Testosterone Replacement Therapy Products Liability Litigation. Elliott Associates, L.P. Elliott Associates, L.P. [Member] Represents information pertaining to Elliot Associates, LP. Legal Proceedings and Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Recorded accrual balance for litigation Loss Contingency Accrual Number of generic companies with whom certain litigation related agreements were entered into Loss Contingency Number of Generic Companies as Counterparty of Litigation Related Agreements Violated Certain Laws Represents the number of generic companies with whom certain litigation related agreements are entered into that violated federal and state antitrust laws and state consumer protection and unjust enrichment laws. Number of individual plaintiff lawsuits Loss Contingency Individual Plaintiff Lawsuits Number Represents the number of individual plaintiff lawsuits filed, pertaining to a loss contingency during the period. Number of purported class actions Loss Contingency Purported Class Actions Number Represents the number of purported class actions filed, pertaining to a loss contingency during the period. Number of healthcare benefit providers who filed lawsuits Loss Contingency, Number of Plaintiffs Numbers of cases are consolidated for pre-trial purposes Number Of Cases Consolidated For Pre-trial Purposes Numbers of cases are consolidated for pre-trial purposes. Number of cases pending Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Percentage of pending claims in US District Courts Percentage Of Pending Claims In United States District Courts Represents the percentage of pending claims in the United States District Courts. Number of individual putative class action lawsuit Putative Class Action Lawsuit Individual Number Represents number of the number of individual putative class action lawsuit. Number of parties to lawsuit (in investment funds) Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number Schedule of consideration paid Schedule Of Consideration Paid [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of consideration paid for acquisition. Schedule of assets acquired and liabilities assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of proforma results of operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Short-term investments Short-term Investments Accounts receivable, net Accounts and Other Receivables, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Prepaid expenses and other Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Total current assets Assets, Current Investments Long-term Investments Property and equipment, net Intangible assets, net Goodwill Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt and lease obligations Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and lease obligations Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, $0.01 par value, 4,000,000,000 shares authorized, 1,768,738,550 shares issued as of December 31, 2017 and 1,754,900,486 as of December 31, 2016 Common Stock, Value, Outstanding Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 176,607,525 shares as of December 31, 2017 and 162,387,762 as of December 31, 2016 Treasury Stock, Value Additional paid-in-capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders’ equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Background and Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of benefit plan information Schedule of Accumulated and Projected Benefit Obligations [Table Text Block] Summary of pretax gains and losses included in other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of net periodic benefit cost relating to the company's defined benefit and other post-employment plans Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of weighted-average assumptions used in determining benefit obligations at the measurement date Schedule of Key Assumptions Used in Measurement of Defined Benefit Plan Benefit Obligation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the benefit obligation, including assumed discount rates and rate increase in compensation increase. Schedule of weighted-average assumptions used in determining net periodic benefit cost Schedule of Weighted Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Pension Expense [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the weighted average assumptions used to determine for pension plans and/or other employee benefit plans the net benefit cost, including assumed discount rates, rate increase in compensation increase, and expected long-term rates of return on plan assets. Schedule of effect of 1% change in assumed health care cost trend rates Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates [Table Text Block] Schedule of defined benefit pension plan assets Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of expected benefit payments Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments [Table Text Block] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Accumulated goodwill impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Amortization period Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Intangible impairment charges Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment charges Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Effect of one percentage point increase, Service cost and interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect of one percentage point decrease, Service cost and interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Service and Interest Cost Components Effect of one percentage point increase, Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Increase on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Effect of one percentage point decrease, Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Effect of One Percentage Point Decrease on Accumulated Postretirement Benefit Obligation Domestic Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Total earnings before income tax expense Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total obligations and commitments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Debt maturities and capital leases Maturities of Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] 2018 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2019 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2020 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2021 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2022 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total obligations and commitments Fair value hedges, unamortized bond discounts and deferred financing costs LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsFairValueHedgesDebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscountsAndDeferredFinancingCosts Represents the aggregate amount of fair value hedge adjustments, debt instrument discounts and deferred financing costs recognized at the issuance of the instrument that have yet to be amortized as of the balance sheet date. Schedule of inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Basis of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Expenses Research and Development Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Collaborations and Other Arrangements Collaborations and other Arrangements [Policy Text Block] Represents the accounting policy for collaborations and other arrangements. Advertising Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Pension and Other Post-Employment Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Litigation and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Acquired In-Process Research and Development In Process Research and Development, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Translation Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of amounts and balance sheet location of derivatives Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of amounts and location of gains (losses) recognized Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of the bases used to measure assets and liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of reconciliation of the fair value measurements Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of the carrying values and fair values of certain financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Summary of available-for-sale securities by type Available-for-sale Securities [Table Text Block] Net investment hedging activities, net of tax expense (benefit) of $(194) in 2017, $79 in 2016 and $— in 2015 Cash flow hedging activities, net of tax expense (benefit) of $(26) in 2017, $18 in 2016 and $(6) in 2015 Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax expense (benefit) of $34 in 2017, $(31) in 2016 and $(139) in 2015 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Hedging activities, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Pension and post-employment benefits, net of tax expense (benefit) of $(94) in 2017, $(75) in 2016 and $96 in 2015 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax and Reclassification Adjustment, Attributable to Parent Marketable security activities, net of tax expense (benefit) of $(8) in 2017, $(11) in 2016 and $22 in 2015 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Net revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net earnings Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Schedule of net revenues by product Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Schedule of net revenues to external customers by geographic area Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Table Text Block] Schedule of long-lived assets by geographic area Long-lived Assets by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Currency [Axis] Currency [Axis] All Currencies [Domain] All Currencies [Domain] Venezuelan bolívar fuerte Venezuelan bolívar fuerte Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] [Line Items] for Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Gross margin Gross Profit Change in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Foreign exchange gain (loss) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Realized Increase to litigation reserves Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision Acquisition related costs Acquisition and Financing Related Costs Amount of acquisition-related and financing-related costs incurred during the reporting period. Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), after-tax Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), after-tax The amount of after-tax impairment loss recognized in the period resulting from the write-down of the carrying amount of an intangible asset (excluding goodwill) to fair value. Global strategic collaboration with Alector, Inc. expense Tax audit settlement Other expense, net Other Expense [Member] Interest Rate Swap Non-designated treasury rate lock agreements Treasury Lock [Member] Fair Value Hedging Fair Value Hedging [Member] Derivative instruments, notional amount and fair value Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Number of outstanding derivative instruments containing credit risk contingent features Number of Credit Risk Derivatives Held Notional amount of derivative instruments Derivative, Notional Amount Duration of forward contracts Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Approximate length of time over which accumulated gains and losses will be recognized in Cost of products sold Period After Settlement of Cash Flow Hedges Within Which Products are Sold Period After Settlement of Cash Flow Hedges Within Which Products are Sold Principal amount of debt issued Pretax gain to be transferred within 12 months Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months Pre-tax gains/(losses) on non-derivative net investment hedges Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Basic EPS Earnings Per Share, Basic, Two Class Method [Abstract] Earnings allocated to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Basic Earnings available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Diluted EPS Earnings Per Share, Diluted, Two Class Method [Abstract] Net earnings Earnings allocated to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings (Loss), Diluted Earnings available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Weighted-average basic shares outstanding (in shares) Effect of dilutive securities (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding (in shares) Schedule of share-based compensation expense Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Summary of AbbVie stock option activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of AbbVie RSA and RSU activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of quarterly cash dividends Schedule of Dividends Payable [Table Text Block] Summary of accelerated share repurchase program Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table Text Block] Summary of changes in each component of AOCI, net of tax Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of the impact of significant amounts reclassified out of components of accumulated other comprehensive loss Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] U.S. Large Cap U S Large Capital Equity Securities [Member] Represents information pertaining to equity securities which have a large size capitalization, generally 5 billion dollars or more. U.S. mid cap U S Mid Capital Equity Securities [Member] Represents information pertaining to equity securities which have a medium size capitalization, generally 1 billion to 5 billion dollars. International Foreign Equity Securities [Member] Represents information pertaining to equity securities invested in a foreign publicly-traded company. U.S. government securities US Treasury and Government [Member] Corporate debt instruments Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Non-U.S. government securities Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member] Other fixed income securities Other Debt Obligations [Member] Absolute return funds Fixed Income Funds [Member] Real assets Real Estate [Member] Other real assets Defined Benefit Plan Other Assets [Member] Represents information relating to Defined Benefit Plan for other Assets. Total Total Plan Assets [Member] Total Plan Assets [Member] Total assets measured at NAV Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets, Net Asset Value Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets, Net Asset Value Fair value of plan assets Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Changes Measurement Changes Measurement [Member] Contingent Consideration Change, By Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Change, By Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Change, By Type [Axis] Contingent Consideration Change, By Type [Domain] Contingent Consideration Change, By Type [Domain] [Domain] for Contingent Consideration Change, By Type [Axis] Change in assumed discount rate Change In Assumed Discount Rate [Member] Change In Assumed Discount Rate [Member] Change in assumed probability rate Change In Assumed Probability Rate [Member] Change In Assumed Probability Rate [Member] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Change in assumed discount rate that would effect contingent consideration Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Change Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Discount Rate Change Potential change in fair value of contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Potential Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Potential Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Change in assumed probability rate that would effect contingent consideration Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Probability Rate Change Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Probability Rate Change Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Increase due to current year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Increase due to prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decrease due to prior year tax positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Lapse of statutes of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Ending balance Net amount of potential tax benefits that would impact the entity's effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Reimbursement receivable for unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties for periods after separation Reimbursement Receivable for Unrecognized Tax Benefit and Related Interest and Penalties Represents the amount of reimbursement receivable for unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties. Interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Accrued interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Reasonably possible amount that gross unrecognized tax benefits may change within the next twelve months, high end of range Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] United States and Puerto Rico United States And Puerto Rico [Member] Represents information pertaining to United States and Puerto Rico. Europe Europe [Member] All other All Other Countries [Member] All Other Countries [Member] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Total long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Document and Entity Information Entry Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Cash Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Fair value of AbbVie common stock Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Deferred consideration payable Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Deferred Consideration Payable Amount of deferred consideration liability incurred by the acquirer as part of consideration transferred in a business combination. Total consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash from operating activities: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Upfront costs and milestones related to collaborations Upfront Costs Related To Collaborations Represents the amount of upfront costs related to collaborations reported in the statement of cash flows. Devaluation loss related to Venezuela Foreign Currency Transaction Loss, before Tax Intangible asset impairment Impacts related to U.S. tax reform Impacts Related To U.S. Tax Reform The aggregate expense charged against earnings related to U.S. tax reform Other, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Other acquisitions and investments Acquisitions of property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of investment securities Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Sales and maturities of investment securities Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Investments Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Cash flows from investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net change in short-term borrowings Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of long-term debt and lease obligations Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Debt issuance costs Payment of Financing and Stock Issuance Costs Dividends paid Payments of Dividends Purchases of treasury stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Proceeds from the exercise of stock options Proceeds from Stock Options Exercised Payments of contingent consideration liabilities Payment for Contingent Consideration Liability, Financing Activities Other, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Cash flows from financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Net change in cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and equivalents, beginning of year Cash and equivalents, end of year Other supplemental information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid, net of portion capitalized Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid Income Taxes Paid Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract] Issuance of common shares associated with acquisitions of businesses Stock Issued Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Axis] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Axis] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Domain] Retirement Plan Sponsor Location [Domain] Foreign Plan [Member] Foreign Plan [Member] Retirement Plan Name [Axis] Retirement Plan Name [Axis] Retirement Plan Name [Domain] Retirement Plan Name [Domain] AbbVie Savings Plan AbbVie Savings Plan [Member] AbbVie Savings Plan [Member] Pre Sixty Five Years of Age Pre Sixty Five Years Of Age [Member] Represents the health care cost trend rate for employees below 65 years age. Post Sixty Five Years of Age Post Sixty Five Years Of Age [Member] Represents the health care cost trend rate for employees above 65 years age. Equity Securities Equity Securities [Member] Debt Securities Debt Securities [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Other Assets Planned voluntary contributions to various defined benefit plans Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Projected benefit obligation Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets - ABO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets - PBO Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Projected Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets - Aggregate plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Fair Value of Plan Assets Pre-tax amount of actuarial loss and prior service cost included in AOCI that is expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Amortization, Next Fiscal Year Reduction of defined benefit plan net periodic benefit cost Defined Benefit Plan Net Periodic Benefit Cost Reduction Amount of reduction of defined benefit plan net periodic benefit cost. Annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care obligation benefits assumed in the current year (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan Health Care Obligations Trend Rate Assumed Current Fiscal Year Represents the assumed health care cost trend rate for the current year used to measure the expected cost of health care obligation benefits covered by the plan (gross eligible charges). Ultimate per capita trend rate for health care costs from 2064 and thereafter Defined Benefit Plan Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed to Decrease The ultimate trend rate for health care costs assumed to decrease. Annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care cost benefits assumed in the current year (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan Health Care Cost Trend Rate Assumed Current Fiscal Year Represents the assumed health care cost trend rate for the current year used to measure the expected cost of benefits covered by the plan (gross eligible charges). Ultimate per capita trend rate for health care costs from 2064 and thereafter (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Ultimate Health Care Cost Trend Rate Target investment allocations for Pension Plan (as a percent) Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Target Allocation, Percentage Expenses recorded Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Raw materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Inventories RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Performance-based RSAs and RSUs Performance-based Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance-based Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance-based RSUs Performance-based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance-based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance-based shares Performance Shares [Member] RSAs, RSUs and Performance Shares Restricted Stock Awards, Restricted Stock Units, And Performance Shares [Member] Restricted Stock Awards, Restricted Stock Units, And Performance Shares [Member] Expiration period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Performance period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Performance Period Common stock received for each vested award (in shares) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Number of Shares to be Issued upon Vesting for Each Award Vested Represents the number of shares of common stock to be received by recipient upon vesting for each equity-based awards, excluding options, vested. Share units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Shares units outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Shares units outstanding at the end of the period (in shares) Weighted-average grant date fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Weighted average fair value outstanding at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Non Option Equity Instruments Outstanding Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Represents the weighted average fair value of non-option equity instrument agreements awarded that validly exist and are outstanding, including vested instruments. Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Expired Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Represents the weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that expired during the period. Weighted average fair value outstanding at the end of the period (in dollars per share) Fair market value of awards vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options Legal Proceedings and Contingencies Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Short-term Investments Short-term Investments [Member] Asset backed securities Asset-backed Securities [Member] Corporate debt securities Other debt securities Equity securities Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Debt securities classified as short-term Debt security maturity period Available-for-sale Securities, Maturity Period of Securities, Maximum Maximum period of maturity for available-for-sale securities, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Amortized Cost Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis Gross unrealized gains Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax Gross unrealized losses Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax Fair Value Other than temporary impairments Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Other than Temporary Impairment, Not Credit Loss, Net of Tax, Available-for-sale, Debt Securities Net realized gains on available-for-sale securities Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Realized Gain (Loss) Cash and equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Short-term investments Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Short Term Investments Represents the information pertaining to business combination recognized identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed short term investments. Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Inventories Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Prepaid expenses and other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Other assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Other Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Current Liabilities Accounts Payable And Accrued Liabilities " Amount of liabilities incurred for accrued liabilities and goods and services received that are used in an entity's business and related party payables, assumed at the acquisition date." Deferred income taxes Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities, Current Other long-term liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities Total identifiable net assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Total assets acquired and liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Spain Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Spain [Member] Greece, Portugal, Italy, and Spain [Member] SAUDI ARABIA SAUDI ARABIA RUSSIAN FEDERATION RUSSIAN FEDERATION Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Accounts Receivable Accounts Receivable [Member] Net revenues Sales Revenue, Net [Member] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] DICOM Foreign Exchange Marginal System Dicom Rate [Member] Foreign Exchange Marginal System(DICOM) rate. Geographic Risk Geographic Concentration Risk [Member] HUMIRA Product Concentration Risk [Member] Concentration of Risk Concentration Risk [Line Items] Exchange rate Foreign Currency Exchange Rate, Translation Asset devaluation loss Asset Devaluation Loss Due To Fluctuation In Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Represents the devaluation loss due to fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rate. Net governmental receivables outstanding Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Concentrations risk (as a percent) Concentration Risk, Percentage Advertising expenses Advertising Expense Amortization period of differences between the expected and actual return on plan assets Amortization Period of Differences between the Expected Long Term Return on Plan Assets and the Actual Return Represents the period over which differences between the expected long-term return on plan assets and the actual return will be amortized. Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Pro Forma Pro Forma [Member] Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption [Axis] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Principles, Early Adoption [Domain] New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect New Accounting Pronouncement, Early Adoption, Effect [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-16 Accounting Standards Update 2016-16 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets Reclassification of income from operating earnings to non-operating earnings New Accounting Pronouncement Or Change In Accounting Principle, Potential Effect Of Change On Operating Results New Accounting Pronouncement Or Change In Accounting Principle, Potential Effect Of Change On Operating Results Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Domestic Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current taxes Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Domestic Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax expense U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act And Foreign Tax Law Changes U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act And Foreign Tax Law Changes [Member] Impacts of U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and foreign tax law changes. Impacts Related to U.S. Tax Reform Transition tax expense Net tax benefit from the remeasurement of deferred taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability Preferred stock authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Schedule of quarterly financial data (unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items] Amount authorized under stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Purchase amount Accelerated Share Repurchases, Settlement (Payment) or Receipt Initial delivery of shares (in shares) Accelerated Share Repurchases, Initial Shares Accelerated Share Repurchases, Initial Shares Final delivery of shares (in shares) Accelerated Share Repurchases, Final Shares Accelerated Share Repurchases, Final Shares Stock Repurchase Program Treasury Stock, Value [Abstract] Shares repurchased (in shares) Payment for shares repurchased on the open market Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock on Open Market The cash outflow to reacquire common stock on the open market during the period. Remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Increase in authorized share repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Increase In Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Increase In Authorized Amount Debt, Credit Facilities, and Commitments and Contingencies Debt Credit Facilities and Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for information about debt, credit facilities and commitments and contingencies. Summary of changes in the carrying amount of the entity's goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of definite-lived intangible assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of indefinite-lived intangible assets Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Summary of anticipated annual amortization expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Dividends Payable [Table] Dividends Payable [Table] Dividends Payable [Line Items] Dividends Payable [Line Items] Dividends paid (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Germany GERMANY United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Japan JAPAN France FRANCE Canada CANADA Spain SPAIN Italy ITALY Brazil BRAZIL The Netherlands NETHERLANDS All other countries Other Countries [Member] Represents information pertaining to other countries not specified anywhere. Collaboration with Janssen Biotech, Inc. Collaborative Arrangement Disclosure [Text Block] Segment and Geographic Area Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Not designated as hedges Cost of products sold Net foreign exchange loss Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Interest expense, net Interest Expense [Member] Gain (loss) on derivatives Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gains (losses) recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Income (expense) and gain (loss) reclassified into or recorded in net earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Income (expense) and gain (loss) reclassified into or recorded in net earnings Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Schedule of profit and cost sharing relationship Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table Text Block]