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] RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Performance-vested RSUs Performance-based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance-based Restricted Stock Units [Member] Performance 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] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period 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. 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 Period for recognition of unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] 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] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Definite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Amortization period Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Definite-lived intangible assets impairment charges Impairment of Intangible Assets, Finite-lived Anticipated annual amortization expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] 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). Business Acquisition Business Acquisition [Line Items] Cash Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Fair value of AbbVie common stock Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Contingent consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Contingent Consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Contingent Consideration 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 Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] 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] In Process Research and Development [Member] In Process Research and Development [Member] Indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived research and development assets Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment charges, pre-tax Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Indefinite-lived intangible assets impairment charge, after-tax Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill), After-Tax Amount of impairment loss, after-tax, resulting from write-down of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance and having a projected indefinite period of benefit to fair value. Accounting Policies [Abstract] Schedule of inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Schedule of property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of impact of adoption on consolidated statement of earnings Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instrument [Axis] Financial Instruments [Domain] Financial Instruments [Domain] Short-term Investments Short-term Investments [Member] Asset backed securities Asset-backed Securities [Member] Corporate debt securities Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Other debt securities Other Debt Obligations [Member] Equity securities Equity Securities, Investment Summary [Member] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Debt Securities, Available-for-sale [Line Items] Debt securities classified as short-term Debt Securities, Available-for-sale 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 Available-for-sale Securities 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) Postemployment Benefits [Abstract] 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 Stock Options Employee Stock Option [Member] Contractual term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term 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 Unrecognized compensation cost Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] 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 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] 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 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] 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 [Member] Change In Assumed Discount Rate [Member] Change In Assumed Discount Rate [Member] Change In Assumed Probability Rate [Member] Change In Assumed Probability Rate [Member] Change In Assumed Probability Rate [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [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] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] 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 Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Change Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Change Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Discount Rate Change Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Cash and equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Time deposits Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Debt securities Equity securities Equity Securities, FV-NI Equity securities Available-for-sale Securities, Equity Securities Foreign currency contracts in asset position Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Interest rate hedges Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Foreign currency contracts in liability position Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Contingent consideration Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure 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 Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Potential Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Probability Rate Change Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Probability Rate Change Fair Value Inputs, Assumed Probability Rate Change 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 Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] 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 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 charges Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Restructuring reserve 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 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] 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] Pension and post- employment benefits Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Marketable security activities Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Cash flow hedging activities Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges 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 income (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 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] In Process Research and Development [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 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. Net revenues Revenues Operating loss Operating Income (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. Initial upfront payment Collaborative Arrangements Initial Upfront Payment Represents the initial upfront payment made by the entity in accordance with collaborative arrangements. 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. Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Hedging activities, tax expense (benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Investment Hedge, Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Amount of tax expense (benefit), after reclassification adjustments of gain (loss) on derivative instruments and nonderivative instruments designated and qualifying as net investment hedge, attributable to parent entity. 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), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification, Tax, Parent 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 Stock-based compensation excess tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Share-based Compensation, Excess Tax Benefit, Percent Tax audit settlements Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlement, Percent All other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Percent Effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent Net tax benefit related to the resolution of various tax positions pertaining to prior years 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 operations foreign currency gains Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Repatriation of Foreign Earnings, Amount Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] 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 Receivable, 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 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill Goodwill Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt Current portion of long-term debt and lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders’ equity (deficit) Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock, $0.01 par value, 4,000,000,000 shares authorized, 1,776,510,871 shares issued as of December 31, 2018 and 1,768,738,550 as of December 31, 2017 Common Stock, Value, Outstanding Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 297,686,473 shares as of December 31, 2018 and 176,607,525 as of December 31, 2017 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 (deficit) Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity 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 credit 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) Dividends paid (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment and Geographic Area Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Debt, Credit Facilities, and Commitments and Contingencies 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. 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] Term loan facilities Loans Payable [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Senior notes issued in 2018 Senior Notes Issued in 2018 [Member] Represents the total unsecured senior notes issued in 2018. 3.375% notes due 2021 Senior Notes Due in 2021 At 3.375 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in 2021 At 3.375 Percent. 3.75% notes due 2023 Senior Notes Due in 2023 At 3.75 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in 2023 At 3.75 Percent. 4.25% notes due 2028 Senior Notes Due in 2028 At 4.25 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in 2028 At 4.25 Percent. 4.875% notes due 2048 Senior Notes Due in 2048 At 4.875 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in 2048 At 4.875 Percent. Floating rate notes due 2018 September 2015 Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member] September 2015 Term Loan Credit Agreement 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. 1.80% notes due 2018 Senior Notes Due In 2018 At 1.80 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due In 2018 At 1.80 Percent. 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. Senior notes issued in 2016 Senior Notes Issued In 2016 [Member] Represents the total unsecured senior notes issued in 2016. Floating rate notes due 2016 Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2016 [Member] Long Term Variable Rate Notes Due In 2016. Senior notes issued in 2015 Senior Notes Issued in 2015 [Member] Represents the total unsecured senior notes issued in 2015. Senior 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. Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] 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. Long-term debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Aggregate principal amount of debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Stated interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Senior note redemption period prior to maturity Debt Instrument, Redemption Period Redemption period of debt instrument, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Debt issuance costs incurred Debt Issuance Costs, Gross Debt discounts Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Senior notes net issuance proceeds Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Repayments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Debt redemption charge Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Debt redemption charge, net of tax Extinguishment of Debt, Gain (Loss), Net of Tax Proceeds from debt issued to pay acquisition Proceeds Used To Finance Acquisition Represents the proceeds from debt instrument used to finance the acquisition. Proceeds from debt 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. Aggregate principal amount outstanding Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Term loan credit agreement term Debt Instrument, Term Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Background Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] 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. Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] U.S. federal corporate tax rate Transition tax expense Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Income Tax Expense Amount of reasonable estimate for income tax expense from transition tax on accumulated earnings of controlled foreign corporation deemed repatriated pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act for which accounting for tax effect is incomplete. Transition tax payable annual installments Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Annual Repayment Installments Number of total annual repayment periods for transition tax on accumulated earnings of controlled foreign corporation deemed repatriated pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Net tax benefit of U.S. tax reform from the remeasurement of deferred taxes related to the Act and foreign tax law changes Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability Net tax benefit for deferred tax remeasurement Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Incomplete Accounting, Change in Tax Rate, Provisional Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Amount of reasonable estimate for income tax expense (benefit) for remeasurement of deferred tax from change in tax rate pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act for which accounting for tax effect is incomplete. Finalized income tax expense related to the Act Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Measurement Period Adjustment, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Amount of income tax expense (benefit) for measurement period adjustment from accounting for tax effect pursuant to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Summary of changes in the carrying amount of 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] Schedule of anticipated annual amortization expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] 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] Patent Litigation Patent Litigation [Member] Represents information pertaining to litigation related to patent disputes. Disgorgement Remedy DisgorgementRemedy [Member] Disgorgement remedy 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. Depakote Depakote [Member] Represents information concerning Depakote-related claims. Elliott Associates, L.P. Elliott Associates, L.P. [Member] Represents information pertaining to Elliot Associates, LP. Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Inc and Grifols Worldwide Operations Ltd Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Inc and Grifols Worldwide Operations Ltd [Member] Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Inc. and Grifols Worldwide Operations Ltd. ibrutinib Patent Litigation Ibrutinib Patent Litigation [Member] Patent litigation regarding ibrutinib. 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 Percentage of Claims Subject to Settlement Agreements Percentage of Claims Subject to Settlement Agreements Percentage of claims subject to settlement agreements Loss Contingency, Claims Dismissed, Number Loss Contingency, Claims Dismissed, Number Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value 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 HCV-related patents Gain Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed upon, Number Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Category [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 Non-U.S. government securities Debt Security, Government, Non-US [Member] Other fixed income securities 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 Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Amount 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. 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] Other Other Long Term Debt [Member] Represents information pertaining to other long-term debts. 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 Current portion Noncurrent portion 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 Schedule of quarterly financial data (unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] 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 (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Licensing, Acquisitions, and Other Arrangements 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] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as hedging instrument Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not designated as hedging instrument Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Foreign currency forward exchange contracts Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Interest rate swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedges Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Net Investment Hedges Net Investment Hedging [Member] Fair Value Hedging Fair Value Hedging [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] 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 Derivative, Term of Contract Approximate length of time over which accumulated gains and losses will be recognized in cost of products sold Maximum Length of Time Hedged in Cash Flow Hedge Principal amount of unsecured senior notes Foreign currency contracts in asset position Foreign currency contracts in liability position Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent event Subsequent Event [Member] 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 Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets - ABO Defined Benefit Plan, 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, Plan with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets, Plan Assets Company contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer 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 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 Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Non-designated treasury rate lock agreements Treasury Lock [Member] Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges Not designated as hedges Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Cost of products sold Cost of Sales [Member] Net foreign exchange loss Foreign Currency Gain (Loss) [Member] Other expense, net Other Expense [Member] Interest expense, net Interest Expense [Member] Gain (loss) on derivatives Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Pre-tax gains (losses) from derivative instruments recognized in other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Pre-tax gains (losses) from net investment hedge recognized in other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Investment Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Gains (losses) recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Pretax gain to be transferred within 12 months Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified During Next 12 Months Income (expense) and gain (loss) reclassified into or recorded in net earnings Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Debt designated as hedged item in fair value hedges gain Increase (Decrease) in Fair Value of Hedged Item in Interest Rate Fair Value Hedge Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Calico Life Sciences LLC Calico Life Sciences Llc [Member] Represents information pertaining to transactions with Calico Life Sciences LLC. Alector, Inc. Alector, Inc [Member] Represents information pertaining to transactions with Alector, Inc. Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Type of Arrangement and Non-arrangement Transactions [Axis] Arrangements And Nonarrangement Transactions [Domain] Arrangements and Non-arrangement Transactions [Domain] Collaborative arrangement Collaborative Arrangement [Member] Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Data [Line Items] [Line Items] for Quarterly Financial Data [Table] Gross margin Gross Profit Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent 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 After-tax cost (benefit) related to change in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration, Liability One-time mandatory repatriation of previously untaxed earnings of foreign subsidiaries After-tax charge to increase litigation reserves Loss Contingency Accrual, Provision After-tax charge as a result of a collaboration agreement extension with Calico Other Expenses After-tax intangible asset impairment charge After-tax benefits due to remeasurement of deferred tax liabilities and other related impacts Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Adjustment of Deferred Tax (Asset) Liability and Other Related Impacts Amount of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations attributable to an adjustment of a deferred tax liability or asset for enacted changes in tax laws or rates or change in the tax status of the entity combined with other related impacts. After-tax intangible asset impairment charge 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. After-tax charge as a result of entering into a global strategic collaboration with Alector Fair Value, Transfers Between Level 1 and Level 2 Fair Value, Transfers Between Level 1 and Level 2, Description and Policy [Abstract] 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 Change in fair value of liabilities measured using level 3 inputs Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, 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 Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Change in fair value liabilities measured using level 3 inputs additional information Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items] Change in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] 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 Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Total long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] 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. Number of principal customers Number of Principal US Customers Represents the number of principal U.S. customers of the entity. Concentrations risk (as a percent) Concentration Risk, Percentage 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 Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Shell Company Entity Shell Company 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 Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of products sold Cost of Goods and Services 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 Other expenses Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating earnings 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 taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense (benefit) Net earnings Per share data Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] 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 Accounts receivable Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Receivables Prepaid expenses and other Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets, Prepaid Expense and Other Assets 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 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 Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax expense (benefit) of $(18) in 2018, $34 in 2017 and $(31) in 2016 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Net investment hedging activities, net of tax expense (benefit) of $40 in 2018, $(194) in 2017 and $79 in 2016 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Investment Hedge, Gain (Loss), After Reclassification and Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Amount, after tax and reclassification, of gain (loss) from derivative instruments and nonderivative instruments designated and qualifying as net investment hedge, attributable to parent entity. Pension and post-employment benefits, net of tax expense (benefit) of $35 in 2018, $(94) in 2017 and $(75) in 2016 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax and Reclassification Adjustment, Attributable to Parent Marketable security activities, net of tax expense (benefit) of $— in 2018, $(8) in 2017 and $(11) in 2016 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Cash flow hedging activities, net of tax expense (benefit) of $23 in 2018, $(26) in 2017 and $18 in 2016 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax, Parent Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Collaboration with Janssen Biotech, Inc. No definition available. Schedule of profit and cost sharing relationship Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] May 2018 term loan credit agreement May 2018 Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member] May 2018 Term Loan Credit Agreement 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] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Short-term borrowings Short-term Debt [Line Items] Weighted-average interest rate on commercial paper (as a percent) Short-term Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate, at Point in Time Revolving credit facility amount Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Revolving credit facility term Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Period Revolving credit facility outstanding Long-term Line of Credit 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] Equity Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] 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 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 Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) 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 Payments to Acquire Other 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 commercial paper borrowings Proceeds from (Repayments of) Commercial Paper Proceeds from issuance of other short-term borrowings Proceeds from Other 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 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 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents 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, Excluding Capitalized Interest, Operating Activities Income taxes received Proceeds from Income Tax Refunds 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 Operating leases Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 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] 2019 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2020 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2021 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2022 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2023 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. Lease expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense 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 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. Advance payments 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] State And Local Jurisdiction State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Foreign Country Foreign Tax Authority [Member] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items] 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 earnings before income tax expense 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] Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measures Derivatives and Fair Value [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of net revenues by product Disaggregation of Revenue [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] Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Key Product Portfolio [Axis] Key Product Portfolio [Axis] Information concerning the company's portfolios of key products. Key Product Portfolio [Domain] Key Product Portfolio [Domain] [Domain] for Information concerning the company's portfolios of key products. Immunology Immunology [Member] Represents information pertaining to Immunology, a key product portfolio of the entity. Hematologic Oncology Hematologic Oncology [Member] Represents information pertaining to Hematologic Oncology, a key product portfolio of the entity. HCV HCV [Member] Represents information pertaining to HCV, a key product portfolio of the entity. Other Key Products Other Key Products [Member] Represents information pertaining to other key products of the entity. Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [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. VENCLEXTA VENCLEXTA [Member] Represents information pertaining to VENCLEXTA, a product of the entity. MAVYRET MAVYRET [Member] Represents information pertaining to MAVYRET, a product of the entity. VIEKIRA VIEKIRA [Member] Represents information pertaining to VIEKIRA, a product of the entity. Creon Creon [Member] Represents information pertaining to Creon, a product of the entity. Lupron Lupron [Member] Represents information pertaining to Lupron, a product of the entity. Synthroid Synthroid [Member] Represents information pertaining to Synthroid, a product of the entity. Synagis Synagis [Member] Represents information pertaining to Synagis, a product of the entity. AndroGel Andro Gel [Member] Represents information pertaining to AndroGel, a product of the entity. Duodopa Duodopa [Member] Represents information pertaining to Duodopa, a product of the entity. Sevoflurane Sevoflurane [Member] Represents information pertaining to Sevoflurane, a product of the entity. Kaletra Kaletra [Member] Represents information pertaining to Kaletra, a product of the entity. All other Other Products [Member] Represents information pertaining to other products of the entity not specified anywhere. United States UNITED STATES International Non-US [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Net revenues Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Schedule of basic and diluted earnings per share, impact of two-class method Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Number of Operating Segments Number of Operating Segments Number of Principal US Customers 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) Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] February 2018 Stock Repurchase Program February 2018 Stock Repurchase Program [Member] February 2018 Stock Repurchase Program December 2018 Stock Repurchase Authorization December 2018 Stock Repurchase Authorization [Member] December 2018 Stock Repurchase Authorization February 2017 Stock Repurchase Program February 2017 Stock Repurchase Program [Member] February 2017 Stock Repurchase Program Open Market Stock Repurchases Open Market Stock Repurchases [Member] Common stock repurchase activity associated with open market repurchases. Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Axis] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Axis] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Domain] Accelerated Share Repurchases, Date [Domain] June 2016 Accelerated Share Repurchase Program June 2016 Accelerated Share Repurchase Program [Member] June 2016 Accelerated Share Repurchase Program Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Amount authorized under stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Increase in authorized share repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Increase In Authorized Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Increase In Authorized Amount Shares repurchased (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Payment for shares repurchased Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Remaining share repurchase authorization amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table] Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Table] Janssen Biotech, Inc Janssen Biotech Inc [Member] Represents the information pertains to the entity Janssen Biotech Inc. Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items] 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. Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] 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 Summary of amounts and location of derivatives on the consolidated balance sheets Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of pre-tax amounts of derivatives recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of pre-tax amounts and location of derivatives recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of 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] Summary of changes in fair value of contingent consideration liabilities which are measured using Level 3 inputs Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of book values, approximate fair values and bases used to measure 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] Post-Employment Benefits Postemployment Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Book value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Bases used to measure the approximate fair values of the financial instruments Investments 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. Carrying amount of investments in equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values Equity Securities without Readily Determinable Fair Value, Amount 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 Collaborative Arrangement, Accounting Policy [Policy Text Block] 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] 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] 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 Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance at the beginning of the period Foreign currency translation Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Balance at the end of the period Accumulated goodwill impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss [Abstract] Accumulated goodwill impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss 2019 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Next Twelve Months 2020 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Two 2021 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Three 2022 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Four 2023 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Year Five 2024 to 2028 Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payment, Five Fiscal Years Thereafter 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 Supplemental Financial Information Additional Financial Information Disclosure [Text Block] Legal Proceedings and Contingencies Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block] Collaboration with Janssen Biotech, Inc. Collaborative Arrangement Disclosure [Text Block] 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] Equipment Building [Member] Equipment Equipment [Member] Construction in progress Construction in Progress [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 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 Percentage of outstanding common stock distributed to Abbott shareholders Percentage of Outstanding Common Stock Distributed Represents the percentage of outstanding common stock distributed to shareholders. Cost of products sold Research and development Research and Development Expense [Member] Selling, general and administrative Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] 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 Tax benefit 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 Other individually insignificant arrangements Other Collaboration Arrangements [Member] Represents information relating to the series of other collaborative arrangements. Cash outflows related to other acquisitions and investments Additional contribution to collaboration Additional Contribution To Collaboration Represents the additional contribution amount to a collaboration. Additional contribution to collaboration by partner Additional Contribution To Collaboration By Partner Represents the additional contribution amount to a collaboration by partner. Term by which the agreement was extended Term By Which The Agreement Was Extended Represents the term by which the agreement was extended. Potential additional 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. 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] Actuarial loss Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, before Tax Amortization of actuarial loss and prior service 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) and other 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 Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, before Tax Summary of the cash activity in the restructuring reserve Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Japan JAPAN Germany GERMANY United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM 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. 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 Total intangible assets gross carrying amount Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Total intangible assets, net 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). Dividends payable Dividends Payable, Current Accounts payable Accounts 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 Other Long-Term Liabilities Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent [Abstract] Income taxes payable Accrued Income Taxes, Noncurrent Contingent consideration liabilities Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability, Noncurrent Liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Liabilities Represents unrecognized tax benefits liabilities. Pension and other post-employment benefits Liability, Defined Benefit Plan, Noncurrent Other Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities 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 Employee contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation, Contributions by Plan Participant Actuarial (gain) 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 Actual return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Increase (Decrease) for Actual Return (Loss) 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 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] Operating earnings Operating Income (Loss) [Member] Other (income) expense, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 Calculated under Revenue Guidance in Effect before Topic 606 [Member] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] 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 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] Retained earnings Retained Earnings [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Income tax benefit Cumulative effect of new accounting principle in period of adoption Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Reclassification of income Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Non-operating income which would have been recorded in operating earnings under previous guidance Net Periodic Defined Benefits Expense (Reversal of Expense), Excluding Service Cost Component Operating lease, liability Operating Lease, Liability Operating lease, right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common stock Common Stock [Member] Treasury stock Treasury Stock [Member] Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive loss Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance (in shares) Shares, Outstanding 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 Purchases of treasury stock (in shares) 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 Adoption of new accounting standards Ending balance (in shares)