v2.4.0.6
Collaborative arrangements (Textuals) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Sep. 30, 2012
Jun. 30, 2012
Mar. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Sep. 30, 2011
Jun. 30, 2011
Mar. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2011
Dec. 31, 2010
Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items]                      
ENBREL sales $ 4,337 $ 4,201 $ 4,200 $ 3,901 $ 3,907 $ 3,877 [1] $ 3,893 $ 3,618 $ 16,639 $ 15,295 $ 14,660
Collaborative Arrangement With Pfizer Inc [Member]
                     
Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items]                      
Period required to pay percentage of net sales, after expiration of agreement in years                 3 years    
Maximum percentage of annual net ENBREL sales payable to Pfizer for three years after expiration of the collaboration agreement in the fourth quarter of 2013 12.00%               12.00%    
Minimum percentage of annual net ENBREL sales payable to Pfizer for three years after expiration of the collaboration agreement in the fourth quarter of 2013 10.00%               10.00%    
ENBREL sales                 4,200 3,700 3,500
Collaborative Arrangement With Pfizer Inc [Member] | Selling General and Administrative [Member]
                     
Collaborative Arrangements and Non-collaborative Arrangement Transactions [Line Items]                      
Profit share expenses                 1,495 1,288 1,184
Cost recoveries                 $ 35 $ 84 $ 87
[1] We recorded a $780 million legal settlement charge ($705 million, net of tax) in connection with an agreement in principle to settle allegations related to our sales and marketing practices.