Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Tax Examination Income Tax Examination [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Income Tax Examination [Line Items] Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions Tax Adjustments, Settlements, and Unusual Provisions Effective tax rate for income from continuing operations Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority Income Tax Examination, Liability (Refund) Adjustment from Settlement with Taxing Authority Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration Financial Instruments [Abstract] Financial Instruments [Abstract] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Other Income Expense [Member] Other Income Expense [Member] Other Income Expense [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Net Investment Hedging [Member] Net Investment Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] All other, net [Member] Other Derivative Instruments [Member] Other Derivative Instruments [Member] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Instrument Risk [Axis] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Derivative Contract Type [Domain] Foreign currency short-term borrowings [Member] Foreign Currency Short Term Borrowings [Member] Foreign currency short - term borrowings [Member] Foreign currency long-term debt [Member] Foreign Currency Long Term Debt [Member] Foreign currency long - term debt [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign currency forward-exchange contracts [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Financial Instruments Gains/(Losses) Recognized in OID Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Derivative Financial Instruments Gains/(Losses) Recognized in OCI Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Derivative Financial Instruments Gains/(Losses) Reclassified from OCI into OID Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Non - Derivative Financial Instruments Gains/(Losses) Recognized in OCI Non Derivative Financial Instruments In Net Investment Hedge Relationships Gain Loss Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income Effective Portion Net Gain (loss) net recorded in other comprehensive income from non-derivative financial instruments in net investment hedge relationships. Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Net Periodic Benefit Costs Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Business Combinations, Discontinued Operations, And Disposal Groups [Abstract] Business Combinations, Discontinued Operations, And Disposal Groups [Abstract] Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table] Schedule of Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] OTC Nexium, 20 Mg Tablet OTC Nexium, Twenty Miligram Tablet [Member] OTC Nexium, Twenty Miligram Tablet [Member] Ferrosan Holding A/S [Member] Ferrosan Holding AS [Member] Ferrosan Holding A/S [Member] King [Member] King [Member] King [Member] Alacer Corp [Member] Alacer Corp [Member] Alacer Corp [Member] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Nutrition [Member] Nutrition [Member] Nutrition [Member] Capsugel [Member] Capsugel [Member] Capsugel [Member] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Upfront cash paid to acquire marketing rights Upfront cash paid to acquire marketing rights Upfront cash paid to acquire the exclusive global rights to market Nexium for approved OTC indications Milestone payments to acquire marketing rights Milestone payments to acquire marketing rights Maximum future milestone payments to acquire the exclusive global rights to market Nexium for approved OTC indications Payments to acquire businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Revenues Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Identifiable intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Net deferred tax liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Taxes Asset (Liability), Net, Noncurrent Goodwill Goodwill Acquisition purchase price per share Business Acquisition, Share Price Percent of outstanding shares initially acquired Business Acquisition Acquired Entity Common Shares Percent Represents the percent of common shares acquired. Total consideration transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Gross contractual amount receivable Business Combination, Acquired Receivables, Gross Contractual Amount Sale price for discontinued operation Discontinued Operation Sale Price The sales price of the discontinued operation. Segment Reporting [Abstract] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] United States [Member] UNITED STATES Product [Axis] Product [Axis] Product [Axis] Product [Domain] Product [Domain] Product [Domain] Lipitor [Member] Lipitor [Member] Lipitor [Member] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Exclusivity expiration date Exclusivity Lost Date Expiration date of exclusive marketing right granted for a drug by FDA. Loss in revenue in comparison with 2011 Reduction In Revenues Due To Loss Of Exclusivity The reduction in revenue due to the loss of exclusivity of marketing right for a drug. Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Business Segments [Axis] Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Certain significant items [Member] Certain Significant Items [Member] Certain significant items [Member] Reconciling Items By Report Caption [Axis] Reconciling Items By Report Caption [Axis] Reconciling Items By Report Caption [Axis] Report Caption [Domain] Report Caption [Domain] Report Caption [Domain] Earnings [Member] Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Extraordinary Items Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Extraordinary Items Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Restructuring charges and implementation costs associated with cost-reduction initiatives, excluding acquisition-related costs Cost Reduction And Productivity Initiatives Excluding Acquisition Related Costs The charge against earnings during the period associated with cost reduction and productivity initiatives, excluding such charges that pertain to acquisition activities. Certain legal matters, net Loss Contingency, Loss in Period Certain asset impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges And Other Charges The amount of impairment loss recognized in the period resulting from the write-down of the carrying amount of intangible assets, other than goodwill, to fair value. Other charges Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Schedule of Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed as Part of Business Combination Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Discontinued Operations-Net of Tax Schedule Of Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations Income Statement [Text Block] Schedule for income statement, relating to disposal groups, including those classified as components of the entity (discontinued operations). May include the gain or loss recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain or loss, amounts of revenues and pretax profit or loss reported in discontinued operations, and the segment in which the disposal group was reported. Also includes the nature and amount of adjustments to amounts previously reported in discontinued operations such as resolution of contingencies arising from the disposal transaction or the operations of the component prior to disposal. Schedule of Assets of Discontinued Operations and Other Assets Held for Sale and Liabilities of Discontinued Operations Schedule Of Disposal Groups Including Discontinued Operations Balance Sheet [Text Block] Schedule for balance sheet relating to disposal groups, including those classified as components of the entity (discontinued operations). May include the classification and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group, and the segment in which the disposal group was reported. Also includes the nature and amount of adjustments to amounts previously reported in discontinued operations such as resolution of contingencies arising from the disposal transaction or the operations of the component prior to disposal. Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition Secondary [Axis] Business Acquisition Secondary [Axis] Business Acquisition Secondary [Axis] Business Acquisition Secondary [Domain] Business Acquisition Secondary [Domain] Business Acquisition Secondary [Domain] Business Combination Effect on Consolidated Results [Member] Business Combination Effect On Consolidated Results [Member] Business Combination Effect On Consolidated Results [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Purchase accounting adjustment for estimated sales of acquisition-date inventory at fair value Cost of Goods and Services Sold Purchase accounting adjustment for amortization of identifiable intangible assets acquired Amortization of Acquired Intangible Assets Purchase accounting adjustment for restructuring and integration costs Business Combination Purchase Accounting Adjustment Restructuring And Integration Cost This element represents the amount of purchase accounting adjustments related to restructuring charges and integration cost in a business combination. Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Deferred tax expense/(benefit) Discontinued Operation Deferred Tax Effect Of Income Loss From Discontinued Operation During Phase Out Period Deferred income tax expense or benefit attributable to income or loss from discontinued operations during the phase-out period. Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Effect Of Income (Loss) From Disposal Of Discontinued Operation Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Effect Of Income (Loss) From Disposal Of Discontinued Operation Discontinued Operation, Deferred Tax Effect Of Income (Loss) From Disposal Of Discontinued Operation Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Indefinite-lived and Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule Of Indefinitelived And Finitelived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-lived and Finite-lived Intangible Assets [Table] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite Lived Brands [Member] Indefinite Lived Brands [Member] Indefinite Lived Brands [Member] In Process Research And Development [Member] In Process Research And Development [Member] In Process Research And Development [Member] Trademarks [Member] Trademarks [Member] 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 Technology Rights [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Brands [Member] Finite Lived Brands [Member] Finite Lived Brands [Member] License Agreements [Member] Licensing Agreements [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite Lived and Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Gross Carrying Amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Finite-lived Intangible Assets, less Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Brands Indefinite Lived Brands Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date for brands. Brands represent the amortized or unamortized cost associated with trade names and know-how, as the products themselves no longer receive patent protection. In-process research and development Indefinite Lived Inprocess Research And Development Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date for in-process research and development. In-process research and development assets that have not yet received regulatory approval and are required to be classified as indefinite- lived assets until the successful completion or the abandonment of the associated research and development effort. During the development period after acquisition, these assets will not be amortized until approval is obtained. Trademarks Indefinite-Lived Trademarks Total indefinite-lived intangible assets Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible assets, gross carrying amount Intangible Assets Gross Excluding Goodwill The gross carrying amount of all identifiable Intangible assets, excluding goodwill, as of the balance sheet date. Identifiable Intangible Assets, less Accumulated Amortization Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income before allocation to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income before allocation to noncontrolling interests to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss Before Allocation To Noncontrolling Interests To Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss Before Allocation To Noncontrolling Interests To Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Share-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Asset write-offs and impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges Gain on sale of discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Provision for Loss (Gain) on Disposal, before Income Tax Deferred taxes from continuing operations Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Other deferred taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense Benefit Discontinued Operations The component of income tax expense for the period representing the increase (decrease) in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities pertaining to discontinued operations. Benefit plan contributions (in excess of)/less than expense Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Contributions Less Pension And Other Postretirement Benefit Expense The amount of cash or cash equivalents contributed during the reporting period by the entity to fund its pension plans and its non-pension postretirement benefit plans less the amount of pension and other postretirement benefit costs recognized during the period for defined benefit plans (periodic benefit costs include the following components: service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, gain or loss on assets, prior service cost or credit, transition asset or obligation, and gain or loss due to settlements or curtailments). Other non-cash adjustments, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and divestitures Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Purchases of property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Purchases of short-term investments Payments to Acquire Short-term Investments Proceeds from redemptions and sales of short-term investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Short-term Investments Net proceeds from/(payments for) redemptions and sales of short-term investments with original maturities of 90 days or less Payments for (Proceeds from) Short-term Investments Purchases of long-term investments Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Proceeds from redemptions and sales of long-term investments Proceeds from Sale, Maturity and Collection of Long-term Investments Acquisitions, net of cash acquired Proceeds from sale of business Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by/(used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from short-term borrowings Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Principal payments on short-term borrowings Repayments Of Short Term Debt Maturing In More Than Three Months Net Of Repayments Of Short Term Debt Maturing In Three Months Or Less The cash outflow from a repayment of a borrowing having initial term of repayment of more than three months but less than one year or one operating cycle (if the normal cycle is more than one year) and may include the cash outflow from a repayment of a borrowing having initial term of repayment within three months net of the cash inflow of a borrowing having initial term of repayment within three months. Net payments on short-term borrowings with original maturities of 90 days or less Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt, Maturing in Three Months or Less Principal payments on long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Purchases of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Cash dividends paid Payments of Ordinary Dividends Other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end Supplemental Cash Flow Information Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid during the period for: Cash Paid During Period For [Abstract] Cash Paid During Period For [Abstract] Cash paid during the period for income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Cash paid during the period for interest Interest Paid, Net Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Environmental Issue [Member] Environmental Issue [Member] Deferred Prosecution Agreement [Member] Deferred Prosecution Agreement [Member] Deferred Prosecution Agreement [Member] Civil Settlement [Member] Civil Settlement [Member] Civil Settlement [Member] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Pending Litigation [Member] Pending Litigation [Member] Proposed Litigation Settlements [Axis] Proposed Litigation Settlements [Axis] Proposed Litigation Settlements [Axis] Proposed Litigation Settlements [Domain] Proposed Litigation Settlements [Domain] Proposed Litigation Settlements [Domain] March 2005 proposed settlement [Member] First Proposed Litigation Settlement [Member] First Proposed Litigation Settlement [Member] Court settlement rejection and Pfizer motion to appeal [Member] Court Settlement Rejection And Entity Motion To Appeal [Member] Court Settlement Rejection And Entity Motion To Appeal [Member] March 2011 proposed settlement [Member] Second Proposed Litigation Settlement [Member] Second Proposed Litigation Settlement [Member] DOJ [Member] D O J [Member] DOJ [Member] SEC [Member] S E C [Member] SEC [Member] Settlement Agreement Reached, Subject To Court Approval [Member] Settlement Agreement Reached, Subject To Court Approval [Member] Settlement Agreement Reached, Subject To Court Approval [Member] Agreement-In-Principle, Subject To Execution Of Final Settlement Agreement [Member] Agreement-In-Principle, Subject To Execution Of Final Settlement Agreement [Member] Agreement-In-Principle, Subject To Execution Of Final Settlement Agreement [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Civil Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Civil Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Civil Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Criminal Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Criminal Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Criminal Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Civil And Criminal Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Civil And Criminal Allegations [Member] Agreement-in-Principle, Civil And Criminal Allegations [Member] Agreement-In-Principle [Member] Agreement-In-Principle [Member] Agreement-In-Principle [Member] Litigation Defendant [Axis] Litigation Defendant [Axis] Litigation Defendant [Axis] Litigation Defendant [Domain] Litigation Defendant [Domain] Litigation Defendant [Domain] Pfizer - Lyrica And Zyvox [Member] Pfizer - Lyrica And Zyvox [Member] Pfizer - Lyrica And Zyvox [Member] Quigley Co, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary [Member] Quigley Co Inc [Member] Quigley Co Inc [Member] American Optical Corp subsidiary of Warner-Lambert [Member] American Optical Corp Subsidiary Of Warner Lambert [Member] American Optical Corp subsidiary of Warner-Lambert [Member] Pharmacia, Pfizer And Certain Former Officers of Pharmacia [Member] Pharmacia, Pfizer And Certain Former Officers of Pharmacia [Member] Pharmacia, Pfizer And Certain Former Officers of Pharmacia [Member] Pfizer - Neurontin Product [Member] Pfizer Neurontin Product [Member] Pfizer - Neurontin Product [Member] Pfizer Chantix / Champix Product [Member] Pfizer Chantix / Champix Product [Member] Pfizer Chantix / Champix Product [Member] IREF -Trade Secrets Action [Member] I R E F Trade Secrets Action [Member] IREF -Trade Secrets Action [Member] Wyeth - Protonix [Member] Wyeth - Protonix [Member] Wyeth - Protonix [Member] Wyeth - Rapamune [Member] Wyeth - Rapamune [Member] Wyeth - Rapamune [Member] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Hormone Replacement Therapy [Member] Hormone Replacement Therapy [Member] Hormone Replacement Therapy [Member] Loss Contingencies by Name of Defendant [Axis] Loss Contingencies By Name Of Defendant [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Name of Defendant [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Name of Defendant [Domain] Loss Contingencies By Name Of Defendant [Domain] Loss Contingencies by Name of Defendant [Domain] HCP Corporation [Member] H C P Corporation [Member] HCP Corporation [Member] Wyeth [Member] Wyeth [Member] Wyeth [Member] Investment Geographic Region [Axis] Investment Geographic Region [Axis] Investment Geographic Region [Domain] Investment Geographic Region [Domain] ITALY ITALY Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Product litigation charge, pre-tax Product litigation charge, after-tax Loss Contingency Loss In Period After Tax The after tax amount of loss pertaining to the specified contingency that was charged against earnings in the period, including the effects of revisions in previously reported estimates. The minimum percentage of votes needed from claimants to approve the proposed bankruptcy reorganization plan Loss Contingency Minimum Percentage Needed For Approval In a litigation matter, the minimum percentage of qualifying votes needed to approve an action, plan, or settlement proposed by the entity. Percentage of claimants that agreed to 2004 proposed settlement Loss Contingency Percentage Of Claimants Approving Proposed Settlement Offer The percentage of individual claimants that agreed to a specified proposed settlement offer. Gross settlement amount offered Loss Contingency Proposed Settlement Amount Offered The sum the company offered to pay claimants, subject to their acceptance and Court approval. Claims payment amount for qualified claimants, first or only payment Loss Contingency Claims Payment Amount For Qualified Claimants First Payment The sum the entity is obligated to pay in full or on a first installment payment date to claimants that provide the appropriate documentation. Notice of appeal and related motion Court Motion Date Filed The date or period in which a motion was filed with a court. Number of Ad Hoc Committee claimants agreeing to the company's proposed settlement offer Loss Contingency Number Of Claimants Accepting Proposed Settlement Offer The number of claimants that have accepted a specific offer by the entity to settle a litigation matter. Claims payment amount for qualified claimants, second payment Loss Contingency Claims Payment Amount For Qualified Claimants Second Payment The sum the entity is obligated to pay on a second payment date to claimants that provide the appropriate documentation. Claims installment, payment terms Loss Contingency Claims Payment Terms The timing as to when a claims payment will be made. Agreed-upon payment amount of plaintiff's legal fees and expenses Loss Contingency Settled Payment Of Legal Costs Of Plaintiff The amount the entity has agreed to pay for plaintiff's legal fees and expenses. Agreed upon amount of assets (cash and non-cash) to be contributed to a special purpose trust created to pay claimants, if Quigley's proposed reorganization plan is approved by the court Loss Contingency Assets Agreed To Be Contributed To Trust For Benefit Of Claimants The value of assets to be deposited into a trust to be used for satisfying legal claims. Insurance settlement, gross recovery Insurance Settlement Gross Recovery The amount that the company will receive from insurers as claims recovery. Insurance settlement collection period Insurance Settlement Collections Period The period over which a settled insurance recovery is due to be collected. Number of claims seeking damages Loss Contingency, Pending Claims, Number Unresolved actions, years outstanding Unresolved Actions, Years Outstanding Unresolved Actions, Years Outstanding Cumulative percentage of actions settled Percentage Of Actions Settled The ratio of settled actions to total actions for a specific issue. Litigation settlement expense Product Liability Accrual, Period Expense Estimated minimum cost to resolve outstanding actions Loss Contingency Accrual, Carrying Value, Provision Damages awarded by the court Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value Environmental Complaint And Penalty Demand, Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Complaint And Penalty Demand, Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Complaint And Penalty Demand, Environmental Protection Agency Treble damages amount awarded, under appeal Loss Contingency Treble Damages Represents the sum of the base and punitive damages awarded by court decision based on a statute that provides for the tripling of the base amount of damages awarded. Fine for administrative waste disposal requirements Payments for Environmental Liabilities Deferred prosecution settlement amount Settlement covering countries description Loss Contingency Settlement Agreement Covering Countries Identifies countries covered under the settlement. Time period of the settlement agreement Loss Contingency Settlement Agreement Period Period which the company will cooperate with government in connection with the deferred prosecution agreement. Disgorgement of profits Loss Contingency Disgorgement Of Profits Returned profits amount made from improper conduct that violated the SEC's regulations. Prejudgment interest Court Judgment Imposed Prejudgment Interest Interest added to an original judgment from the time of the injury to the date of the settlement. Litigation Settlement Loss, Before Tax Non-deductible Litigation Settlement Loss Non-deductible Litigation Settlement Loss Litigation Settlement Loss, Net of Tax Litigation Settlement Loss, Net of Tax Litigation Settlement Loss, Net of Tax Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted By Common Class [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted By Common Class [Line Items] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] EPS Numerator-Basic Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income from continuing operations attributable to Pfizer Inc. Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Less: Preferred stock dividends-net of tax Dividends, Preferred Stock Income from continuing operations attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders Income Loss From Continuing Operations Available To Common Stockholders Basic This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations available to common stockholders which may also be defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items and cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, but after deduction of those portions of income or loss from continuing operations that are allocable to noncontrolling interests and preferred stock dividends declared or paid in the period, if any. Discontinued operations-net of tax Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic EPS Denominator Eps Denominator [Abstract] Eps Denominator Abstract Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding-Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Common-share equivalents: stock options, stock issuable under employee compensation plans and convertible preferred stock Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding-Diluted Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Stock options that had exercise prices greater than the average market price of our common stock issuable under employee compensation plans Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Information about Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Selected Financial Assets and Liabilities Presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Selected Financial Assets And Liabilities By Balance Sheet Grouping [Text Block] This item represents the locations of selected financial assets and liabilities by balance sheet grouping at the balance sheet date. Contractual Maturities of Available-for-sale and Held-to-maturity Debt Securities Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block] Schedule of Gains/(Losses) Incurred to Hedge or Offset Operational Foreign Exchange or Interest Rate Risk Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Table Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Net Unrealized Gain/(Losses) [Member] Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member] Benefit Plans [Member] Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Componentsof Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Componentsof Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Currency Translation Adjustment And Other [Member] Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Derivative Financial Instruments [Member] Gain (Loss) on Derivatives [Member] Available For-Sale Securities [Member] Available-for-sale Securities [Member] Actuarial Gains/(Losses) [Member] Actuarial Gains And Losses [Member] Actuarial Gains And Losses [Member] Prior Service (Costs)/ Credits And Other [Member] Prior Service Credit And Cost [Member] Prior Service Credit And Cost [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward] Balance, December 31, 2011 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Balance, July 1, 2012 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 Termination Costs [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Estimated Employee Terminations Estimated Employee Terminations Item represents the expected reduction of the workforce due to cost-reduction initiatives. Other current liabilities Restructuring Reserve, Current Other noncurrent liabilities Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Developed Europe [Member] Developed Europe [Member] Developed Europe [Member] Developed Rest Of World [Member] Developed Rest Of World [Member] Developed Rest Of World [Member] Emerging Markets [Member] Emerging Markets [Member] Emerging Markets [Member] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Revenues Revenue, Net Percentage Change in Revenue Percentage Change In Revenue The percentage change in revenue. Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Schedule of Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Table] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Type [Axis] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used, Asset Name [Domain] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Impaired Long-Lived Assets Held and Used [Line Items] Long-lived assets held-for-sale Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived Long-lived assets held-for-sale cost of sale Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold Property, plant, and equipment and other long-lived assets, fair value Assets Held-for-sale, Long Lived, Fair Value Disclosure Impairment charge, included in restructuring charges Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held-for-use Pension and Postretirement Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements And Accounting Policies [Abstract] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements And Accounting Policies [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Table] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Table] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Table] Public Offering [Member] Public Offering [Member] Public Offering [Member] Animal Health [Member] Animal Health [Member] Animal Health [Member] Zoetis [Member] Zoetis [Member] Zoetis [Member] King US [Member] King U S [Member] King U S [Member] King International [Member] King International [Member] King International [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items] Anticipated potential public offering percentage Percentage Of Ownership Interests Owned By Public Stockholders Percentage of ownership interests owned by public stockholders. Time period of operations included in parent's financial statements Business Acquisition, Period Results Included in Combined Entity Cost of Sales [Member] Cost of Sales [Member] Selling Informational And Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling Informational And Administrative Expenses [Member] Selling Informational And Administrative Expenses [Member] Research and Development Expenses [Member] Research and Development Expense [Member] Transaction costs Business Combination Acquisition Related Costs Transaction Costs This element represents external costs directly related to effecting a business combination which costs have been expensed during the period. Such costs include advisory, legal, accounting, valuation, and other similar services. Integration costs Business Combination, Integration Related Costs Restructuring charges: Restructuring Charges [Abstract] Employee termination costs Employee Termination Costs The charge against earnings in the period for known and estimated costs of termination benefits provided to current employees that are involuntarily terminated under a benefit arrangement associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructurings pursuant to a duly authorized plan, including costs or losses pertaining to an entity newly acquired in a business combination as defined by generally accepted accounting principles and costs associated with one-time termination benefits. Asset impairments Impairment Of Long Lived Assets And Other Charges The aggregate amount of write-downs for impairments recognized during the period for long lived assets held for use and other related charges. Exit costs Business Exit Costs Restructuring charges and certain acquisition-related costs Restructuring Charges And Acquisition Related Costs This element represents (i) restructuring charges, which are amounts charged against earnings in the period for incurred and estimated costs associated with exit from or disposal of business activities or restructurings pursuant to a program that is planned and controlled by management, and materially changes either the scope of a business undertaken by an entity, or the manner in which that business is conducted; and (ii) acquisition-related costs, which are costs incurred to effect a business combination which costs have been expensed during the period. Such costs can include transaction costs such as banking, legal, accounting and other costs directly related to effect a business combination as well as external, incremental costs of integration planning that are directly related to a business combination, including costs associated with preparing for systems and other integration activities. Additional depreciation-asset restructuring recorded in our condensed consolidated statements of income as follows: Additional Depreciation Asset Restructuring [Abstract] Additional Depreciation Asset Restructuring Abstract Additional depreciation - asset restructuring Additional Depreciation Asset Restructuring Additional depreciation asset restructuring represents the impact of changes in the estimated useful lives of assets involved in restructuring actions. Implementation costs recorded in our condensed consolidated statements of income as follows: Implementation Cost [Abstract] Implementation Cost [Abstract] Implementation costs Implementation Costs Implementation costs represent external, incremental costs directly related to Implementing cost-reduction initiatives, and primarily include expenditures related to system and process standardization and the expansion of shared services. Total costs associated with acquisitions and cost-reduction/ productivity initiatives Cost Reduction Initiatives And Acquisition Costs Costs incurred in connection with the Company's cost-reduction/productivity initiatives and business acquisitions. Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Table] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Intangible Assets By Major Class [Axis] Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Intangible Assets Major Class Name [Domain] Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring, Valuation Techniques [Line Items] Intangible assets, fair value Intangible Assets Fair Value Disclosure This element represents intangible assets fair value disclosure. Impairment charges Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Euro [Member] Euro Denominated [Member] Euro Denominated [Member] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Trading securities [Member] Trading Account Assets [Member] Available-for-sale money market funds [Member] Available For Sale Money Market Funds [Member] This item represents equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading. Money market funds represent ownership in debt instruments. If money markets funds are determined to have had an other than temporary decline in fair value below its amortized cost basis the loss shall be recognized in earnings. Available-for-sale equity securities, excluding money market funds [Member] Available For Sale Equity Securities Excluding Money Market Funds [Member] This item represents equity securities excluding money market funds categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading. Equity securities excluding money market funds represent ownership interests or the right to acquire ownership interests in corporations and other legal entities which ownership interest is represented by shares of common or preferred stock (which is not mandatorily redeemable or redeemable at the option of the holder), convertible securities, stock rights, or stock warrants. Unrealized gains and losses related to Available-for-sale Securities are excluded from earnings and reported in a separate component of shareholders' equity (other comprehensive income), unless the Available-for-sale Security is designated as a hedge or is determined to have had an other than temporary decline in fair value below its amortized cost basis. All or a portion of the unrealized holding gain or loss of an Available-for-sale Security that is designated as being hedged in a fair value hedge shall be recognized in earnings during the period of the hedge, as should other than temporary declines in fair value below costs basis. Interest rate swaps [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Financial assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis Derivative Assets Other selected financial assets Other Selected Financial Assets [Abstract] Other selected financial assets [Abstract] Held-to-maturity debt securities, carried at amortized cost Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, Net Carrying Amount Private equity securities, carried at equity method or at cost Private Equity Securities Owned Carried At Cost Or Equity This item represents the carrying amount on the entity's balance sheet of its investment in private equity securities accounted for under the cost and equity methods. The carrying amount for equity method investees is not an indicator of the fair value of the investment, rather it is the initial cost adjusted for the entity's share of earnings and losses of the investee, adjusted for any distributions (dividends) and other than temporary impairment losses recognized. The original cost of the cost method investments may differ from the aggregate carrying amount due to various adjustments such as: (i) dividends received in excess of earnings after the date of investment that are considered a return of investment and therefore recorded as reductions to cost of the investment, or (ii) a series of operating losses of an investee or other factors which may indicate that a decrease in value of the investment has occurred which is other than temporary and should accordingly be recognized. Total Other Selected Financial Assets The total amount of other selected financial assets presented in the balance sheet caption at the balance sheet date. Total selected financial assets Selected Financial Assets Total selected financial assets at the balance sheet date. Financial instruments measured at fair value on a recurring basis: Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Abstract] Financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Other financial liabilities Other Financial Liabilities [Abstract] Other Financial Liabilities [Abstract] Short-term borrowings, carried at historical proceeds, as adjusted Debt, Current Long-term debt, carried at historical proceeds, as adjusted Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Total Other Financial Liabilities Total other financial liabilities Total selected financial liabilities Selected Financial Liabilities Total selected financial liabilities. Subsequent Events [Abstract] Number of operating segments (in operating segments) Number of Operating Segments Total assets Assets Finite Lived Brands [Member] Specialty Care [Member] Specialty Care [Member] Specialty Care [Member] Established Products [Member] Established Products [Member] Established Products [Member] Primary Care [Member] Primary Care [Member] Primary Care [Member] Oncology [Member] Oncology [Member] Oncology [Member] Consumer Healthcare [Member] Consumer Healthcare [Member] Consumer Healthcare [Member] Worldwide Research and Development [Member] Research And Development [Member] Research and Development [Member] Percentage of finite-lived intangible asset amortized cost by segment Percentage Of Finitelived Intangible Asset Amortized Cost By Segment The percentage of amortized cost of finite-lived intangible assets by segment. Percentage of indefinite-lived intangible asset unamortized costs by segment Percentage Of Indefinitelived Intangible Asset Unamortized Costs By Segment The percentage of unamortized cost of indefinite-lived intangible assets by segment. Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Commercial Paper [Member] Commercial Paper [Member] Foreign Currency Debt Designated As Hedging Instruments Long Term Liability At Fair Value [Member] Foreign Currency Debt Designated As Hedging Instruments Long Term Liability At Fair Value [Member] Fair value of long term foreign currency debt which is used as a hedging instrument. Asbestos Litigation [Member] Asbestos Issue [Member] Footnotes to selected financial assets and liabilities: Footnotes To Selected Financial Assets And Liabilities [Abstract] Footnotes to selected financial assets and liabilities [Abstract] Percentage of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value inputs Level 1 and Level 3 inputs Percentage Of Financial Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value Inputs Level 1 And Level 3 Inputs Percentage of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value inputs Level 1 and Level 3 inputs. Money market funds held in escrow Escrow Deposit Money market funds held in trust Available For Sale Securities Equity Securities Money Market Funds This item represents equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading. Money market funds represent ownership in debt instruments. If money markets funds are determined to have had an other than temporary decline in fair value below its amortized cost basis the loss shall be recognized in earnings. Instruments used as offsets (assets) Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Instruments used as offsets (liabilities) Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Fair value of long-term debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Specialty Care And Oncology [Member] Specialty Care And Oncology [Member] Specialty Care And Oncology [Member] Established Products and Emerging Markets [Member] Established Products And Emerging Markets [Member] Established Products and Emerging Markets [Member] Other Operating Segments [Member] Animal Health And Consumer Healthcare [Member] Animal Health and Consumer Healthcare [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Beginning balance Additions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Other Goodwill, Other Changes Ending balance Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Loss from continuing operations attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Adoption of New Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Working capital, excluding inventories Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Working Capital Excluding Inventories The amount of working capital, excluding inventories, recognized as of the acquisition date. Inventories Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Property, plant and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Identifiable intangible assets, excluding in-process research and development Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangibles In-process research and development Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed In Process Research And Development The amount of in process research and development recognized as of the acquisition date. Net tax accounts Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Net Tax Accounts The amount of net tax accounts recognized as of the acquisition date. All other long-term assets and liabilities, net Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Other Assets Acquired And Liabilities Assumed Net The amount of all other assets and liabilities recognized as of the acquisition date. Total identifiable net assets Net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Foreign currency translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income Statement [Abstract] Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of sales Selling, informational and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense (Excluding Acquired in Process Cost) Amortization of intangible assets Amortization Of Intangible Assets Not Associated With Single Function The amount of amortization that is not associated with a single function. Amounts associated in a single function are included in Cost of sales, Selling, information and administrative expenses and Research and development expenses. Restructuring charges and certain acquisition-related costs Other deductions-net Other Operating Income (Expense), Net Income from continuing operations before provision for taxes on income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Provision/(benefit) for taxes on income Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income from continuing operations Discontinued operations: Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Income from discontinued operations––net of tax Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax Gain on sale of discontinued operations––net of tax Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Discontinued operations-net of tax Net income before allocation to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to Pfizer Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Earnings per common share-basic: Income from continuing operations attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations-net of tax (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings per common share-diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations-net of tax (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income attributable to Pfizer Inc. common shareholders (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted-average shares-Basic Weighted-average shares-Diluted Cash dividends paid per common share (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Inventories [Table] Schedule Of Inventories [Table] Schedule of Inventories [Table] Inventories [Line Items] Inventories [Line Items] Inventories [Line Items] Finished goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Work-in-process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Raw materials and supplies Inventory, Raw Materials and Supplies, Net of Reserves Total inventories Inventory, Net Noncurrent portion not included above Inventory, Noncurrent Tax Matters Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Financial Instruments Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Revenues Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Pre-tax income from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, before Income Tax Provision for taxes on income Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period Income from discontinued operations––net of tax Pre-tax gain on sale of discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Provision for taxes on income Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation Gain on sale of discontinued operations––net of tax Schedule of Costs Associated with Cost-Reduction/Productivity Initiatives and Acquisition Activity Schedule Of Cost Reduction And Productivity Initiatives And Acquisition Related Costs [Text Block] Schedule of costs in connection with cost-reduction and productivity initiatives and acquisition activity. Schedule of Restructuring Accruals Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Asset Impairment Charges Included In Restructuring Charges Details of Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Held and Used by Asset [Table Text Block] Document Documentand Entity Information [Abstract] Document - Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Other Deductions-Net Other Income and Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Selected Income Statement Information by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenues by Geographic Region Revenues By Geography [Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information concerning the amount of revenue from external customers attributed to identified geographic areas which revenue is material. Schedule of Significant Product Revenues Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Credit Risk Contract [Member] Credit Risk Contract [Member] Derivative Instruments Issued By Counterparties [Member] Derivative [Member] United Kingdom Pound [Member] UNITED KINGDOM Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] Maturing in 2038 [Member] Maturing In 2038 [Member] Maturing in 2038 [Member] Short - Term Borrowings Short-term Debt [Abstract] Commercial paper outstanding Short-term Debt Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Assets [Abstract] Aggregate notional amount of foreign exchange derivative financial instruments Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivatives Notional amount of foreign exchange derivative financial instruments Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives Aggregate notional amount of interest rate derivative financial instruments Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Credit Risk Derivatives Credit Risk Derivatives [Abstract] Aggregate fair value of net derivative liabilities Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Posted collateral Collateral Already Posted, Aggregate Fair Value Additional collateral Additional Collateral, Aggregate Fair Value Concentration risk maximum exposure Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Securities received as collateral Securities Received as Collateral Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Selected Financial Assets Cash And Cash Equivalents Selected financial assets presented in the balance sheet caption, Cash and cash equivalents, at the balance sheet date. Short-term investments Short-term Investments Long-term investments Long-term Investments Taxes and other current assets Selected Financial Assets Current Deferred Tax Assets And Other Current Assets Selected financial assets presented in the balance sheet caption, Current deferred tax assets and other current assets, at the balance sheet date. Taxes and other noncurrent assets Selected Financial Assets Noncurrent Deferred Tax Assets And Other Noncurrent Assets Selected financial assets presented in the balance sheet caption, Noncurrent deferred tax assets and other noncurrent assets, at the balance sheet date. Total Liabilities Liabilities [Abstract] Short-term borrowings, including current portion of long-term debt Other current liabilities Selected Financial Liabilities Current Deferred Tax Liabilities And Other Current Liabilities Selected financial liabilities presented in the balance sheet caption, Current deferred tax liabilities and other current liabilities, at the balance sheet date. Long-term debt Other noncurrent liabilities Selected Financial Liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities Selected financial liabilities presented in the balance sheet caption, Other Noncurrent liabilities, at the balance sheet date. Total Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] Revenue, Net Tax Expense/(Benefit) on Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax Unrealized holding gains/(losses) on derivative financial instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Reclassification adjustments for realized (gains)/losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax, Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Unrealized gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax Reclassification adjustments for realized losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax, Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities, Tax Benefit plans: Actuarial gains/(losses) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized (Gain) Loss Arising During Period, Tax Reclassification adjustments related to amortization Other Comprehensive Income Amortization Of Net Actuarial Gain Loss Tax Effect Tax effect of amortization of actuarial gain or losses in other comprehensive income. Reclassification adjustments related to curtailments and settlements, net Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Curtailments And Settlements Net Tax Effect Tax effects on adjustment to other comprehensive income for curtailments and settlements, net, related to defined benefit plans actuarial gains /losses. Other Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Other Actuarial Gain Loss Tax Effect Tax effect on adjustment to other comprehensive income for other adjustments related to defined benefit plans actuarial gains /losses. Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Actuarial Gain Loss Tax Effect Period Decrease Increase Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Actuarial Gain Loss Tax Effect Period Decrease Increase Total tax effect of the aggregate actuarial net gain (loss) recognized in other comprehensive income. Benefit plan: Prior service costs and other Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Net Prior Service Cost Credit Arising During Period Tax Effect The tax effect on cost (credit) of benefit changes attributable to plan participants' prior service resulting from a plan amendment or plan initiation that occurred during the period. Reclassification adjustments related to amortization Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Pension Cost, Tax Reclassification adjustments related to curtailments and settlements, net Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Prior Service Cost Credit Curtailments And Settlements Net Tax Effect The tax effect on adjustment to other comprehensive income for curtailments and settlements, net, related to defined benefit plans prior service (costs)/credits. Other Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Prior Service Cost Credit Other Tax Effect The tax effect on adjustment to other comprehensive income for other adjustments related to defined benefit plans prior service (costs)/credits. Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Net Prior Service Cost Credit Tax Effect Period Decrease Increase Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Net Prior Service Cost Credit Tax Effect Period Decrease Increase Total tax effect on aggregate net prior service cost or credit recognized in other comprehensive income. Tax benefit on other comprehensive income/(loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Reportable Segments [Member] Reportable Segment [Member] Other operating segments [Member] Other operating segments [Member] Amounts from the Animal Health and Consumer Healthcare operating segments. Other business activities [Member] All Other Segments [Member] Corporate [Member] Corporate [Member] Purchase Accounting Adjustments [Member] Purchase Accounting Adjustments [Member] Purchase Accounting Adjustments [Member] Acquisition-related Costs [Member] Acquisition-related Costs [Member] Other unallocated [Member] Other Unallocated [Member] Other unallocated [Member] R&D Expenses Earnings Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense [Table] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense [Table] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense [Axis] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense [Axis] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, Name [Domain] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, Name [Domain] Component of Operating Other Cost and Expense [Line Items] Component of Operating Other Cost and Expense [Line Items] Interest income Investment Income, Nonoperating Interest expense Interest Expense Net interest expense Net Interest Income Expense Amount of net interest income and expense. Royalty-related income Royalty Revenue Net gains on asset disposals Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Assets Costs associated with the potential separation of the Animal Health business Separation Costs Associated With Pizer Animal Health Related to costs incurred in connection with the potential initial public offering of up to a 20% ownership stake in our Animal Health business, Zoetis, Inc. (Zoetis). Includes expenditures for banking, legal, accounting and similar services related to the potential transaction. Other, net Other deductions-net Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] U.S. Qualified Pension Plans [Member] United States Pension Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] U.S. Supplemental (Non-Qualified) Pension Plans [Member] United States Supplemental Non Qualified Pension Plans Of U S Entity Defined Benefit [Member] United States Supplemental Non Qualified Pension Plans Of U S Entity Defined Benefit [Member] International Pension Plans [Member] Foreign Pension Plans, Defined Benefit [Member] Postretirement Plans [Member] United States Postretirement Benefit Plans of US Entity, Defined Benefit [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return on Plan Assets Amortization of: Amortization Of [Abstract] Amortization of: [Abstract] Actuarial losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Prior service credits Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Prior Service Cost (Credit) Curtailments and settlements-net Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Settlements and Curtailments Special termination benefits Defined Benefit Plan, Other Costs Net periodic benefit costs Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Components of Inventories Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Inventories Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Inventory Prepaid assets Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Prepaid Assets For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying amount of prepaid assets. Current deferred tax assets and other current assets Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Current Deferred Tax And Other Assets For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), represents a) The deferred tax assets (net of any valuation allowances), which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net deductible temporary differences and carryforwards pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A deductible temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles that will result in deductible amounts for tax purposes in future periods if there is sufficient tax-basis income to enable the deduction to be taken that are expected to be realized or consumed within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, and b) Carrying amount of other assets not otherwise specified in the taxonomy that are expected to be realized or consumed within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Net Goodwill Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill Identifiable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Net Deposits advances and other assets Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Deposits Advances And Other Assets For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying amount of deposits advances and other assets. Deferred charges Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Deferred Charges For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), carrying amount of deferred charges. Noncurrent deferred tax assets and other noncurrent assets Disposal Group Including Discontinued Operation Noncurrent Deferred Tax And Other Assets For the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), represents a) The deferred tax assets (net of any valuation allowances), which result from applying the applicable tax rate to net deductible temporary differences and carryforwards pertaining to each jurisdiction to which the entity is obligated to pay income tax. A deductible temporary difference is a difference between the tax basis and the carrying amount of an asset or liability in the financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles that will result in deductible amounts for tax purposes in future periods if there is sufficient tax-basis income to enable the deduction to be taken, and b) Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of assets not otherwise specified, and which are expected to be realized or consumed after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. For an unclassified balance sheet, represents both current and noncurrent other assets. Assets of discontinued operations and other assets held for sale Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Current liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Current Other liabilities Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Noncurrent Liabilities of discontinued operations Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation Celebrex [Member] Celebrex [Member] Celebrex [Member] Investments Impairment Charge [Member] Investments Impairment Charge [Member] Loss Contingencies by Name of Plaintiff [Axis] Loss Contingencies By Name Of Plaintiff [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Name of Plaintiff [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Name of Plaintiff [Domain] Loss Contingencies By Name Of Plaintiff [Domain] Loss Contingencies by Name of Plaintiff [Domain] Brigham Young University [Member] Brigham Young University [Member] Brigham Young University [Member] U.S. Department of Justice [Member] U.S. Department of Justice [Member] U.S. Department of Justice [Member] Robitussin [Member] Robitussin [Member] Robitussin [Member] Rapamune [Member] Rapamune [Member] Rapamune [Member] Product litigation, hormone replacement therapy Intangible asset impairments Percentage Of Ownership Interests Owned By Public Stockholders Schedule of Tax Benefit on Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) Comprehensive Income Tax Expense Benefit Components Table [Text Block] Tabular disclosure of comprehensive income (loss) tax expense (benefit) components including, but not limited to regarding tax effects on foreign currency translation adjustments, change in the market value of a futures contract and tax effects on net prior service cost or credit for pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. Earnings Per Share Attributable to Common Shareholders Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Curtailment gain Defined Benefit Plan, Recognized Net Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailments Contributions Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Expected contributions in next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Estimated Future Employer Contributions in Next Fiscal Year Asset Impairment Charges [Member] Asset Impairments [Member] Asset impairments [Member] Exit Costs [Member] Other Restructuring [Member] Balance, December 31, 2011 Restructuring Reserve Provision Restructuring Reserve, Period Increase (Decrease) Utilization and other Restructuring Reserve Utilization And Other Adjustment to restructuring reserve resulting from utilization and foreign currency translation. Balance, July 1, 2012 Schedule of Available for sale Securities and Held to maturity Securities [Table] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities And Held To Maturity Securities [Table] Schedule of Available for sale Securities and Held to maturity Securities [Table] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Western European, Asian and other government debt [Member] Western European Asian And Other Government Debt [Member] Western European Asian And Other Government Debt [Member] Corporate debt [Member] Corporate Debt Securities [Member] U.S. government debt [Member] US Government Debt Securities [Member] Reverse repurchase agreements [Member] Reverse Repurchase Agreements [Member] The carrying value of securities purchased to be resold in reverse repurchase transactions. Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and Federal National Mortgage Association asset-backed securities [Member] Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation And Federal National Mortgage Association Asset Backed Securities [Member] This category includes investments in asset-backed debt securities issued by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and Federal National Mortgage Association. Western European, Scandinavian and other government agency debt [Member] Western European Scandinavian And Other Government Agency Debt [Member] Western European Scandinavian And Other Government Agency Debt [Member] Supranational debt [Member] Supranational Debt [Member] Represents the debt of international organizations such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, regional multilateral development banks, multilateral financial institutions, and other similar organizations. Debt Security [Axis] Debt Security [Axis] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt Securities [Domain] Certificates of deposit and other [Member] Certificates Of Deposit And Other [Member] This category includes information about certificates of deposit and other held to maturity debt securities not separately identified. Schedule of Available for sale Securities and Held to maturity Securities [Line Items] Schedule Of Available For Sale Securities And Held To Maturity Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available for sale Securities and Held to maturity Securities [Line Items] Debt securities maturities within 1 year Debt Securities Maturities Within One Year This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature within one year of the balance sheet date. Debt securities maturities over 1 to 5 years Debt Securities Maturities Over One To Five Years This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature after one year and through five years from the balance sheet date. Debt securities maturities over 5 to 10 years Debt Securities Maturities Over Five To Ten Years This item represents debt securities which are expected to mature after five and through ten years from the balance sheet date. Total debt securities Debt Securities This item represents the total of all debt securities grouped by maturity dates. Held-to-maturity debt securities maturities within 1 year Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, within One Year, Net Carrying Amount Held-to-maturity debt securities with maturities over 1 to 5 years Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after One Through Five Years, Net Carrying Amount Held-to-maturity debt securities maturities over 5 to 10 years Held-to-maturity Securities, Debt Maturities, after Five Through Ten Years, Net Carrying Amount Held-to-maturity debt securities maturities total Available-for-sale debt securities maturities within 1 year Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value Available-for-sale debt securities maturities over 1 to 5 years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Two Through Five, Fair Value Available-for-sale debt securities maturities over 5 to 10 years Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Year Six Through Ten, Fair Value Available-for-sale debt securities maturities total Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Text Block] Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Restructuring Charges and Other Costs Associated with Acquisitions and Cost-Reduction/Productivity Initiatives Cost Reduction And Productivity Initiatives And Acquisition Related Costs Disclosure [Text Block] Description of cost-reduction and productivity initiatives associated with a comprehensive plan to integrate acquired operations, generate cost savings and capture synergies across the company; as well as costs incurred in connection with an acquisition. These costs include (i) restructuring activities, including exit and disposal activities, the major types of costs associated with the plan activities and the accrual balance at the end of the period; (ii) integration costs, which represent external, incremental costs directly related to integrating acquired businesses; (iii) implementation costs, which represent external, incremental costs directly related to implementing cost-reduction initiatives prior to acquisition and primarily include expenditures related to system and process standardization and the expansion of shared services; (iv) additional depreciation-asset restructuring, which represents the impact of changes in the estimated useful lives of assets involved in restructuring actions; and (v) transaction costs, representing external costs incurred in connection with an acquisition. Schedule of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets Schedule Of Finite Lived And Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets By Major Class [Text Block] Disclosure of the details of finite-lived and indefinite-lived intangible assets, excluding goodwill, in total and by major class. A major class is composed of intangible assets that can be grouped together because they are similar, either by their nature or by their use in the operations of the company. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Excluding Noncontrolling Interests Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block] Biopharmaceutical [Member] Biopharmaceutical [Member] Biopharmaceutical [Member] Other products [Member] Other Products [Member] Other products [Member] Lyrica [Member] Lyrica [Member] Lyrica [Member] Enbrel (Outside the U.S. and Canada) [Member] Enbrel [Member] Enbrel [Member] Prevnar 13/ Prevenar 13 [Member] Prevnar 13 Prevenar 13 [Member] Prevnar 13/ Prevenar 13 [Member] Viagra [Member] Viagra [Member] Viagra [Member] Norvasc [Member] Norvasc [Member] Norvasc [Member] Zyvox [Member] Zyvox [Member] Zyvox [Member] Sutent [Member] Sutent [Member] Sutent [Member] Premarin family [Member] Premarin Family [Member] Premarin family [Member] Genotropin [Member] Genotropin [Member] Genotropin [Member] Xalatan / Xalacom [Member] Xalatan Xalacom [Member] Xalatan / Xalacom [Member] BeneFIX [Member] Bene F I X [Member] Bene F I X [Member] Detrol / Detrol LA [Member] Detrol Detrol LA [Member] Detrol Detrol LA [Member] Vfend [Member] Vfend [Member] Vfend [Member] Chantix / Champix [Member] Chantix Champix [Member] Chantix / Champix [Member] Pristiq [Member] Pristiq [Member] Pristiq [Member] ReFacto AF/ Xyntha [Member] Re Facto AF Xyntha [Member] Re Facto AF Xyntha [Member] Revatio [Member] Revatio [Member] Revatio [Member] Zoloft [Member] Zoloft [Member] Zoloft [Member] Medrol [Member] Medrol [Member] Medrol [Member] Zosyn / Tazocin [Member] Zosyn Tazocin [Member] Zosyn / Tazocin [Member] Effexor [Member] Effexor [Member] Effexor [Member] Geodon / Zeldox [Member] Geodon Zeldox [Member] Geodon / Zeldox [Member] Zithromax / Zmax [Member] Zithromax Zmax [Member] Zithromax / Zmax [Member] Prevnar / Prevenar (7-valent) [Member] Prevnar Prevenar 7 [Member] Prevnar Prevenar 7 [Member] Fragmin [Member] Fragmin [Member] Fragmin [Member] Aricept [Member] Aricept [Member] Aricept [Member] Cardura [Member] Cardura [Member] Cardura [Member] Relpax [Member] Relpax [Member] Relpax [Member] Tygacil [Member] Tygacil [Member] Tygacil [Member] EpiPen [Member] Epi Pen [Member] EpiPen [Member] Xanax XR [Member] Xanax X R [Member] Xanax XR [Member] BMP2 [Member] B M P 2 [Member] B M P 2 [Member] Sulperazon [Member] Sulperazon [Member] Sulperazon [Member] Diflucan [Member] Diflucan [Member] Diflucan [Member] Caduet [Member] Caduet [Member] Caduet [Member] Neurontin [Member] Neurontin [Member] Neurontin [Member] Unasyn [Member] Unasyn [Member] Unasyn [Member] Aromasin [Member] Aromasin [Member] Aromasin [Member] Arthrotec [Member] Arthrotec [Member] Arthrotec [Member] Inspra [Member] Inspra [Member] Inspra [Member] Dalacin / Cleocin [Member] Dalacin Cleocin [Member] Dalacin / Cleocin [Member] Toviaz [Member] Toviaz [Member] Toviaz [Member] Metaxalone/Skelaxin [Member] Metaxalone Skelaxin [Member] Metaxalone Skelaxin [Member] Methotrexate [Member] Methotrexate [Member] Methotrexate [Member] Protonix [Member] Protonix [Member] Protonix [Member] Alliance revenues [Member] Alliance Revenues [Member] Alliance revenues [Member] All Other Biopharmaceutical Products [Member] All Other [Member] All other [Member] Pfizer Centre Source And Other [Member] Pfizer Centre Source And Other [Member] Pfizer Centre Source And Other [Member] Schedule of Other Deductions-Net Schedule Of Other Income Deductions Net [Text Block] Schedule of other income deductions net. Schedule of Additional Information About Intangible Assets Impaired Schedule of Impaired Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Statement of Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax Reclassification adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax, Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, before Tax Unrealized holding gains/(losses) on derivative financial instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Reclassification adjustments for realized (gains)/losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax, Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax Unrealized holding gains/(losses) on available-for-sale securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Reclassification adjustments for realized (gains)/losses Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment for Sale of Securities Included in Net Income, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax, Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, before Tax Benefit plans: Actuarial gains/(losses) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Reclassification adjustments related to amortization Other Comprehensive Income Amortization Of Net Actuarial Gain Loss Before Tax Pre tax amount of amortization of actuarial gain or losses in other comprehensive income. Reclassification adjustments related to curtailments and settlements, net Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Curtailments And Settlements Net Before Tax Sum of pre tax adjustment to other comprehensive income for curtailments and settlements, net, related to defined benefit plans. Other Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Other Actuarial Gain Loss Arising During Period Before Tax Pre tax adjustment to other comprehensive income for other adjustments related to defined benefit plans actuarial gains /losses. Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax, Total Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax Benefit plans: Prior service credits and other Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Arising During Period, before Tax Reclassification adjustments related to amortization Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Reclassification adjustments related to curtailments and settlements, net Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Prior Service Cost Credit Curtailments And Settlements Net Before Tax Pre tax adjustment to other comprehensive income for curtailments and settlements, net, related to defined benefit plans prior service (costs)/credits. Other Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plan Prior Service Cost Credit Other Before Tax Pre tax adjustment to other comprehensive income for other adjustments related to defined benefit plans prior service (costs)/credits. Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Prior Service Cost, before Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss), before tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Tax benefit on other comprehensive income/(loss) Other comprehensive income/(loss) before allocation to noncontrolling interests Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Comprehensive income before allocation to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income/(loss