2.2.0.25truefalse0605 - Disclosure - Cost savings initiatives (Details)truefalseIn Millionsfalse1falsefalseUSDtruefalse{amgn_GainLossIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Other Charges [Member]
{amgn_RestructuringPlansAxis} : Optimization of Manufacturing Network [Member]
1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011
USD ($)
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{amgn_RestructuringPlansAxis} : Optimization of Manufacturing Network [Member]
{us-gaap_RestructuringAndRelatedCostByTypeOfRestructuringAxis} : Asset Impairment Charges [Member]
1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010
USD ($)
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1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011
USD ($)
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12/31/2010
USD ($)
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-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 144
-Paragraph 26
-Subparagraph b
Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
-Publisher FASB
-Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS)
-Number 144
-Paragraph 7, 25
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