Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Table Text Block] Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] 2013 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2014 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2015 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years Total payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Less: amount representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments present value of payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] September 2009 Financial Transactions September 2009 Financial Transactions Expenses and Losses (Gains) Related to September 2009 Financial Transactions Schedule of Costs and Liabilities Related to Certain Financial Transactions [Table Text Block] Disclosure in a table of information of the expenses and gains/losses recorded in the income statement, and liabilities recorded to the Balance Sheet, related to the secured notes and the sale of future milestone payments. Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities, Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Axis] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Major Types of Debt and Equity Securities [Domain] Alios BioPharma, Inc Alios Bio Pharma Inc [Member] Collaboration agreement entered into with Alios BioPharma, Inc. Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] Cash equivalents (Alios) Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounting Policies [Abstract] Nature of Business and Accounting Policies Organization, Consolidation, Basis of Presentation, Business Description and Accounting Policies [Text Block] Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring Expense Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Contingencies Contingencies [Text Block] Contingencies [Text Block] Collaborative Arrangements Collaborative Arrangements Schedule of Collaborative Arrangement Agreements [Table] Schedule of Collaborative Arrangement Agreements [Table] A schedule reflecting significant collaboration agreements in which the entity is a participant. Collaborative Arrangements by Agreement [Axis] Collaborative Arrangements by Agreement [Axis] Significant terms of collaboration arrangements, by individual agreement. Collaborative Arrangement Agreement [Domain] Collaborative Arrangement Agreement [Domain] Listing of significant collaboration agreements. Janssen Pharmaceutica, N.V. Janssen Collaborative Agreement [Member] Collaboration agreement entered into with Janssen Pharmaceutical, N.V. for the development, manufacture and commercialization of a product of the entity. Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation Mitsubishi Tanabe Collaborative Agreement [Member] Collaboration agreement entered into with Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation for the development and commercialization of a product of the entity. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics Incorporated Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics Incorporated Agreement [Member] Collaboration agreement entered into with Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics Inc., for the development, manufacture and commercialization of a product of the entity. Schedule of Collaborative Arrangements Schedule of Collaborative Arrangement Agreements [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Drug development costs to be paid by collaborator (as a percent) Collaborative Arrangement Development Cost Contribution, Percent Percent of total development cost for the parties' territories, as specified in the collaboration agreement, that is to be funded by the other party to the agreement. Tiered royalty average range, as a percentage of net sales in the Janssen territories Tiered Royalty Average Percent of Net Sales The average expected royalty rate as a percent of net sales based on a tiered royalty schedule included in the collaboration agreement. Up-front license payment Collaborative Arrangement Up-front License Fee The amount of the up-front license fee received by the entity pursuant to a collaborative arrangement. Deferred revenue related to up-front license payment Deferred Revenue Total contingent milestone payments earned Collaborative Arrangement Contingent Consideration Earned, Gross The total amount of contingent milestone payments earned to date pursuant to the collaboration agreement including a $50 million milestone payment that was earned in the first quarter of 2011 in connection with the EMA acceptance of the MAA for telaprevir. Milestone payment earned pursuant to the collaborative agreement Collaborative Arrangement Contingent Consideration Earned Portion of Gross The total amount of contingent milestone payments earned to date pursuant to the collaboration agreement, including a $50 million milestone payment that was earned in the first quarter of 2011 in connection with the EMA acceptance of the MAA for telaprevir and a $200 million milestone payment earned in the third quarter of 2011 in connection with the approval of INCIVO by the European Commission and Lauch in the European Union. Notice period required to terminate without cause after receipt of marketing approval (in years) Collaborative Arrangement, Notice Period Required for Termination after Marketing Approval, Years The minimum number of years notice required to terminate a collaboration agreement after the receipt of marketing approval. Collaborative revenues recognized Recognized Collaborative Revenue [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Royalty revenues Royalty Revenue Amortized portion of up-front payment Amortized Portion of Up-front Payment This element represents the amortized portion of the up-front payment. Milestone revenues Milestone Revenues This element represents the revenues recorded for milestone payments received. Net reimbursement (payment) for telaprevir development costs Collaborative Arrangement Revenues, Net Reimbursement Development Program Expense This element represents the net amount of reimbursable costs incurred by the entity that the collaborator is obligated to pay the entity, after offsetting any reimbursable expenses incurred by the collaborator, which are recognized as collaborative revenues. Reimbursement for manufacturing services Collaborative Arrangement Revenues Through Third Party Manufacturing Network This element represents revenues from collaborator for manufacturing services provided through the entity's third-party manufacturing network. Collaborative revenues Collaborative Revenues The aggregate revenue from collaborative revenues. It includes the revenues earned by the entity from nonrefundable, up-front license fees; net reimbursements of research and/or development efforts, including manufacturing services; and milestone payments. Total revenues Revenues License fee paid upon amendment of agreement Collaborative Arrangement License Fee Paid on Amendment The amount of the license fee received by the entity upon amendment of a collaborative agreement. Milestone payment received Collaborative Arrangement, Milestone Payment Received Represents the milestone payment received. Notice period required to terminate without cause (in days) Collaborative Arrangement Notice Period Required for Termination, Days The number of days notice required to terminate a collaboration agreement. Deferred revenue related to up-front license payment Collaborative funding Collaborative Arrangement Research Development Funding This element represents the funding under collaborative agreement 2011 amendment for research and development. Number of years over which funding will be made (in years) Number of Years over which Research Development Funding will be Made This element represents the number of years over which research and development funding will be made as per the collaboration agreement 2011 amendment. Number of commercial milestone payments for achievement of certain sales levels for potentiator compound such as VX-770 (in payments) Number of Commercial Milestone Payments for Achievement of Certain Sales Levels for Potentiator Compound Represents the milestone payments to be made upon achievement of certain sales levels for a potentiator compound. Number of commercial milestone payments for achievement of certain sales levels for corrector compound such as VX-809 or VX-661 (in payments) Number of Commercial Milestone Payments for Achievement of Certain Sales Levels for Corrector Compound Represents the milestone payments to be made upon achievement of certain sales levels for a corrector compound. Up-front payment Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Cash Paid Milestone payments Development milestone payments, maximum Collaborative Arrangement Development Potential Milestone Payments, Maximum Represents the potential additional development milestone amount to be paid by the entity as of period end under the collaboration agreement if both compounds are approved and commercialized. Commercial milestone payments, maximum Collaborative Arrangement Commercial Milestone Payments, Maximum Represents the maximum amount of commercial milestone to be paid by the entity. Notice period for termination of contract due to technical failure (in days) Collaborative Arrangement Notice Period for Termination of Agreement Due to Technical Failure Represents the notice period for the termination of contract due to technical failure. Notice period for termination of contract after completion of clinical trials (in days) Collaborative Arrangement Notice Period for Termination of Agreement after Completion of Clinical Trials Represents the notice period for the termination of contract after completion of clinical trials. Latest expiration period for royalty obligation after first commercial sale in country unless contract is terminated earlier (in years) Collaborative Arrangement Latest Expiration Period Unless Terminated Earlier Represents the latest expiration period for royalty obligation after first commercial sale in country unless the contract is terminated earlier. Intangible assets Other Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets Noncontrolling Interest (Alios) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Number of lines on balance sheet where noncontrolling interest is reported Noncontrolling Interest, Number of Lines on Balance Sheet Represents the number of lines in the condensed consolidated balance sheet used by the entity to record the noncontrolling interest. Loss (income) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes Loss (Income) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest before Income Tax Provision and Change in Fair Value of Contingent Milestone and Royalty Payments Represents the loss (income) of noncontrolling interest before provision for (benefit from) income taxes and change in fair value of contingent milestone and royalty payments during the period. Decrease (increase) in fair value of contingent milestone and royalty payments Business Acquisition Change in Fair Value of Contingent Consideration This element represents change in fair value, recognized during the reporting period, of potential milestone and royalty payments payable by the Company to the noncontrolling interest. Provision for (benefit from) income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest (Alios) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Restricted cash and cash equivalents (Alios) Prepaid expenses and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangible assets, excluding goodwill Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill Goodwill Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current Income taxes payable (Alios) Taxes Payable, Current Deferred tax liability Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other liabilities, excluding current portion Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Redeemable noncontrolling interest (Alios) Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Preferred, Fair Value Noncontrolling interest (Alios) Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Research and development expense associated with collaborative programs Research and Development Expense Associated with Collaborative Programs A portion of the aggregate research and development expense that has been allocated to programs in which a collaborator has funded at least a portion of the research and development expenses. Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Financial assets subject to fair value measurements (excluding restricted cash and cash equivalents (Alios)) Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Exchange and Debt Conversion [Table] Debt Exchange and Debt Conversion [Table] A schedule of debt conversions and exchanges by the entity. Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes 3.35 Percent Due 2015 Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes 3.35 Percent Due 2015 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount, by issuance of long-term convertible senior subordinated notes, bearing interest at the rate of 3.35% per annum, maturing in 2015. Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes (due 2013) Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes 4.75 Percent Due 2013 [Member] A contractual arrangement to borrow and repay an amount, by issuance of long-term convertible senior subordinated notes, bearing interest at the rate of interest of 4.75 percent per annum, maturing in 2013. Debt Exchange and Debt Conversion [Axis] Debt Exchange and Debt Conversion [Axis] The grouping of debt conversion and debt exchange activity of the entity. Debt Exchange and Debt Conversion Activity [Domain] Debt Exchange and Debt Conversion Activity [Domain] The list of debt conversion and debt exchange activity of the entity. First quarter 2010 conversion First Quarter 2010 Conversion [Member] The conversion program in which convertible notes were converted into newly-issued stock in the first quarter of 2010. Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes and Collaborator Loan [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Convertible senior subordinated notes Convertible Subordinated Debt, Noncurrent Net proceeds from convertible debt offering Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Underwriting discount Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Expenses The cash outflow paid to third parties in connection with debt origination (excluding any Underwriting Discounts), which will be amortized over the remaining maturity period of the associated long-term debt. Conversion price (in dollars per share) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Original conversion rate, number of shares to be issued per $1000 of principal (in shares) Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Convertible debt principal amount, basis for exchange Debt Exchange Rate, Principal Amount Used in Calculation The unit of measurement in dollars which establishes the exchange rate of the debt instrument into common shares. Interest rate (as a percent) Subordinated Borrowing, Interest Rate Percent closing price needs to exceed the conversion price for at least 20 trading days within 30 consecutive trading days for provisional redemption (as a percent) Condition for Provisional Redemption if Percentage in Excess of Conversion Price for Common Stock Traded for Atleast 20 Days within 30 Consecutive Trading Days This element represents the condition for provisional redemption, if percentage is in excess of conversion price for common stock that is traded for at least 20 days within 30 consecutive trading days. Minimum number of days within 30 consecutive trading days the closing price needs to exceed the conversion price for provisional redemption (in days) Condition for Provisional Redemption, Minimum Number of Days within 30 Consecutive Trading Days, Closing Price Needs to Exceed Conversion Price The number of trading days within a period of 30 consecutive trading days the closing price of the Company's common stock must exceed the applicable conversion price by 130% in order for the Company to, at its option, redeem all or part of the convertible notes. Total consecutive trading days during which the closing price must exceed the conversion price for at least 20 trading days for provisional redemption (in days) Condition for Provisional Redemption, Consecutive Trading Days with the Closing Price in Excess of the Conversion Price for Provisional Redemption The number of consecutive trading days during which the closing price of the Company's common stock must exceed the applicable conversion price by 130% for at least 20 days in order for the Company to, at its option, redeem all or part of the convertible notes. Percentage of principal amount used in computation of provisional redemption price (as a percent) Percentage of Principal Amount Used in Computation of Provisional Redemption Price The percentage of principal amount used in computation of provisional redemption price. Total interest payments on notes being provisionally redeemed equal to interest for specified number of years (in years) Interest Payments on Notes Provisionally Redeemed Equal to Interest of Specified Number of Years This element represents the interest of the specified number of years which the entity would make interest payments for the notes being provisionally redeemed. Senior Notes Senior Notes Convertible subordinated notes exchanged or converted (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion or Exchange of Convertible Subordinated Notes The number of shares of stock issued during the period in an exchange or conversion of convertible subordinated notes. Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Revenue by product [Domain] inventory by product [Domain] Inventory by product INCIVEK INCIVEK [Member] INCIVEK inventories, net KALYDECO KALYDECO [Member] KALYDECO inventories, net Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Credit Concentration Risk Credit Concentration Risk [Member] Major Customers [Axis] Major Customers [Axis] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Name of Major Customer [Domain] Amerisource Bergen Drug Corporation Amerisource Bergen Collaborative Agreement [Member] Represents AmerisourceBergen Drug Corporation. McKesson Corporation McKesson Collaborative Agreement [Member] Represents McKesson Corporation. Cardinal Health Incorporated Cardinal Health Collaborative Agreement [Member] Represents Cardinal Health, Inc. Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Revenues, Net [Member] Revenues, Net [Member] Aggregate revenues net during the period in the normal course of business. Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts Receivable [Member] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Statement, Geographical [Axis] Segment, Geographical [Domain] Segment, Geographical [Domain] United States UNITED STATES Outside of the United States Segment, Geographical, Groups of Countries, Group One [Member] United Kingdom UNITED KINGDOM Europe Segment, Geographical, Groups of Countries, Group Two [Member] Other UNKNOWN COUNTRY Revenues from external customers Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Product revenues, net Sales Revenue, Goods, Net Total revenues Concentration risk, percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Threshold for disclosure percentage Threshold for Disclosure Percentage Threshold percentage which the entity uses for disclosure. Property and equipment, net Long-Lived Assets Restructuring activities Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Liability, beginning of the period Restructuring Reserve Cash payments Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Cash received from subleases Restructuring Reserve Settled with Cash Receipt from Sublease Amount of cash received in the period to fully or partially offset a specified, previously accrued type of restructuring cost. Credit for portion of facility Vertex decided to occupy in 2005 Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment Restructuring expense Restructuring Charges Liability, end of the period Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract] Matching contributions to the Vertex 401(k) Plan Schedule of Matching Contribution under Retirement Plan [Table Text Block] Disclosure of matching contributions to the retirement plan. Operating Loss and Tax Credit, Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss and Tax Credit, Carryforwards [Table] Schedule reflecting pertinent information, such as tax authority, amounts, and expiration dates, of net operating loss carryforwards, including an assessment of the likelihood of utilization and tax credit carryforwards. Operating Loss and Tax Credit, Carryforwards [Axis] Operating Loss and Tax Credit, Carryforwards [Axis] Pertinent information pertaining to each tax loss carryforward, by tax authority and tax credit carryforwards. Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] State State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] Tax Carryforwards Tax Carryforwards [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Federal statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Reconciliation of Income Tax Expense: Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations, Income Tax Reconciliation [Abstract] Income (loss) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Expected tax provision (benefit) Income Tax Reconciliation, Income Tax Expense (Benefit), at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate State taxes, net of federal benefit Income Tax Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes Foreign rate differential Income Tax Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential Tax credits Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Credits Unbenefited operating losses Income Tax Reconciliation, Unbenefited Operating Losses This element represents the unbenefited operating losses for the period. Non-deductible expenses Income Tax Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate Other Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Provision for (benefit from) income taxes Operating Loss Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax Credit Tax Credit Carryforward, Amount Reconciliation of unrecognized tax benefits Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized tax benefits beginning of year Unrecognized Tax Benefits Gross change for current year positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Gross Change from Current Period Tax Positions The gross amount of unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions that have been or will be taken in the tax return for the current period, excluding amounts pertaining to examined tax returns. Increase for prior period positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decrease for prior period positions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Decrease due to settlements and payments Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Decrease due to statute limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Uncrecognized tax benefits end of year Amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would result in a reduction of the Company's effective tax rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Possible reduction in unrecognized tax benefits in next twelve months Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Deferred tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Net operating loss Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Tax credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards Property and equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment This element represents the amount as of the balance sheet date, of the estimated future tax deductions attributable to the difference between the tax basis of capital assets and the basis of capital assets computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The difference in basis, attributable to different capitalization of costs, depreciation, or amortization methodologies, will decrease future taxable income, when such a difference in basis is realized. Capital assets include but are not limited to assets such as land, real estate, leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment and furniture and fixtures. Intangibles Deferred Tax Assets Intangibles The component of income tax expense for the period representing the increase (decrease) in the entity's deferred tax assets related to intangible assets. Deferred revenues Deferred Tax Assets, Deferred Income Stock-based compensation Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Inventories Deferred Tax Assets, Inventory Accrued expenses Deferred Tax Assets, Accrued Expenses and Other The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from currently nondeductible expenses in accrued and other expenses, which can only be deducted for tax purposes when such items are actually incurred, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. Unrealized loss Deferred Tax Assets Unrealized Loss The tax effect as of the balance sheet date of the amount of the estimated future tax deductions arising from unrealized losses which can only be deducted for tax purposes when the losses are realized, and which can only be realized if sufficient tax-basis income is generated in future periods to enable the deduction to be taken. Gross deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred tax liabilities: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Unrealized gain Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Contingent milestone and royalty payment obligation Deferred Tax Liabilities Contingent Consideration Represents amount of deferred tax liability recognized pertaining to contingent consideration. Acquired intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Net amount of unrealized excess tax benefits Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation Gross amount of excess tax deduction in net operating loss carryforward Unrecognized Excess Tax Deductions Share-based Compensation The amount by which the deduction by the entity on its tax return for an award of stock (associated with any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)) exceeds the cumulative compensation cost for common stock or preferred stock recognized for financial reporting. Decreased in valuation allowance Income Tax Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Preferred stock, par value (usd per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (usd per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Fan Pier Leases [Abstract] Fan Pier Leases [Abstract] Fan Pier Leases Construction in Progress [Policy Text Block] Construction in progress [Policy Text Block] Summary of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-term Investments [Table Text Block] Maximum percentage of annual compensation contributed by the participant Maximum Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Contribution, Percentage of Compensation The maximum percentage of compensation that can be contributed by employees into the 401(k) retirement plan. Common stock shares remained available for grant Defined Contribution Plan, Number of Shares Available for Grant Represents the number of shares available for grant under 401(k) retirement plan during the period. Matching contributions to the Vertex 401(k) Plan: Defined Contribution Pension and Other Postretirement Plans Disclosure [Abstract] Discretionary matching contributions during the year ended December 31, Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Shares issued during the year ended December 31, Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Benefit Plan Shares issuable as of the year ended December 31, Stock Issuable at Period End under 401 K Retirement Plan Represents shares issuable under 401(k) retirement plan as of period end. Accrued expenses Accrued Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Research, development and commercial contract costs Accrued Research Development and Commercial Contract Costs This element represents the carrying value as of the balance sheet date of obligations incurred through that date and payable for R&D and commercial of the entity. It is used to reflect the current portion of liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle, if longer). Payroll and benefits Employee-related Liabilities, Current Product revenue allowances Product Sales Accrued Liabilities ITotal of product sales allowances and reserves that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs. Royalty payable Accrued Royalties, Current Unrecognized tax benefits Interest Interest Payable, Current Professional fees Accrued Professional Fees, Current Other Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Available-for-sale Securities [Table] Schedule of the cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale investments held by the entity. Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Available-for-sale Securities Types of Financial Instruments [Axis] Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Available-for-sale Securities Types of Financial Instruments [Axis] This element represents a number of concepts which capture the categories of financial instruments classified as cash and cash equivalents and available-for-sale investments. Types of Financial Instruments [Domain] Types of Financial Instruments [Domain] Provides general categories of financial instruments included as cash, cash equivalents and available-for-sale investments. Total cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents [Member] Cash and money market funds Cash and Money Market Funds [Member] Cash includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the customer may deposit additional funds at any time. Government-sponsored enterprise securities US Government Sponsored Enterprises Debt Securities Cash Equivalent [Member] Represents cash equivalents that are investments in debentures, bonds and other debt securities issued by GSEs, such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC or Freddie Mac), Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA or Fannie Mae), and the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB). Excludes debt issued by the Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA or Ginnie Mae), which is backed by the full faith and credit of the US Government. Total marketable securities Available-for-sale Securities [Member] U.S. Treasury securities US Treasury Securities [Member] Government-sponsored enterprise securities US Government-sponsored Enterprises Debt Securities [Member] Commercial paper (due within 1 year) Commercial Paper [Member] Corporate debt securities (due within 1 year) Corporate Debt Securities, Due Within One Year [Member] Corporate Debt Securities, Due Within One Year [Member] Corporate debt securities (due after 1 year through 5 years) Corporate Debt Securities, Due After One Year Through Five Years [Member] Corporate Debt Securities, Due After One Year Through Five Years [Member] Summary of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Amortized Cost Cash, Cash Equivalents, Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost This item represents the cost of cash and cash equivalents and debt and equity securities, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading, net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any. Gross Unrealized Gains Cash, Cash Equivalents, Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain This item represents the gross unrealized gains for cash, cash equivalents and securities which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Such gross unrealized gains are the excess of the fair value over the carrying value as of the reporting date. Gross Unrealized Losses Cash, Cash Equivalents, Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Loss, Gross This item represents the gross unrealized losses for cash, cash equivalents and securities which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. Such gross unrealized losses are the excess of the carrying value over the fair value as of the reporting date. Fair Value Cash, Cash Equivalents and Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value This item represents the fair value of cash, cash equivalents and debt and equity securities, which are categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading. Commitments Commitments Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, by Major Property Class [Table] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, by Major Property Class [Table] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain] Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain] Fan Pier Leases Fan Pier Leases [Member] Represents the fan pier leases. Kendall Square Lease Property Subject to Operating Lease [Member] Other Operating Leases Other Operating Leases [Member] Represents the other operating leases. 2015 Notes Operating lease Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items] Initial term of lease agreement (in years) Initial Term of Lease Agreement Represents initial period term of lease agreement. Optional term of lease agreement (in years) Optional Term of Lease Agreement Represents additional period to extend term of lease agreement. Office space used for operation (in square feet) Occupied Leased Facility Area The portion of total leased area available at a specific site that is occupied by the Company for operations, stated in square feet. Options to extend term Number of Lease Terms to Extend Represents the number of lease terms the entity has the option to extend on the Kendall Square Lease. Future minimum commitments under facility leases commitments with terms of more than one year Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due [Abstract] 2013 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Future minimum sublease income Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions [Abstract] 2013 Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within One Year 2014 Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Two Years 2015 Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Three Years 2016 Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Four Years 2017 Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, within Five Years Thereafter Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions, Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Future Minimum Sublease Rentals, Sale Leaseback Transactions Rental expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Effective interest rate (percentage) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2015) Sale of HIV Protease Inhibitor Royalty Stream Sale of HIV Protease Inhibitor Royalty Stream Sale of HIV Protease Inhibitor Royalty Stream Sale of HIV Protease Inhibitor Royalty Stream Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure related to the sale of the HIV protease inhibitor royalty stream. Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Assets Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Marketable securities, available for sale Available-for-sale Securities, Current Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Total current assets Assets, Current Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Noncurrent Total assets Assets Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Deferred revenues, current portion Deferred Revenue, Current Accrued restructuring expense, current portion Restructuring Reserve, Current Capital lease obligations, current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Current Other liabilities, current portion Other Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Deferred revenues, excluding current portion Deferred Revenue, Noncurrent Accrued restructuring expense, excluding current portion Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Capital lease obligations, excluding current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Construction financing lease obligation Construction Financing Obligation, Noncurrent Represents the noncurrent portion of a lease liability recorded as a result of capitalizing the landlord's costs of constructing facilities associated with building leases. Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note S and Note U) Commitments and Contingencies Redeemable noncontrolling interest (Alios) Shareholders’ equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 1,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding at December 31, 2012 and 2011 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $0.01 par value; 300,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2012 and 2011; 217,286,868 and 209,303,995 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Total Vertex shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Schedule of product revenues allowances and reserve categories Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of product revenues allowances and reserve accounts (their beginning and ending balances, as well as reconciliation by type of activity during the period). Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock options Stock Options [Member] Convertible senior subordinated notes Convertible Debt Securities [Member] Unvested restricted stock and restricted stock units Restricted Stock [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Basic net income (loss) attributable to Vertex per common share calculation: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Net income (loss) attributable to Vertex common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Less: Undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities Undistributed Earnings, Basic Net income (loss) attributable to Vertex common shareholders—basic Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Weighted-average shares used to compute basic net income (loss) per common share (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic net income (loss) attributable to Vertex per common share (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Vertex per common share calculation: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Less: Undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities Undistributed Earnings, Diluted Net income (loss) attributable to Vertex common shareholders—diluted Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Effect of potentially dilutive securities: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Stock options (shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Stock Options Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of stock options. Other (shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Unvested Restricted Stock Units and Employee Stock Purchase Plan Additional shares included in the calculation of diluted EPS as a result of the potentially dilutive effect of unvested restricted stock units and employee stock purchase plan. Weighted-average shares used to compute diluted net income (loss) per common share (shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted net income (loss) attributable to Vertex per common share (usd per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Accrued Expenses Accounts Payable, Accrued Liabilities, and Other Liabilities Disclosure, Current [Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Inventory Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Product Information [Table] Schedule of Product Information [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Product Information [Line Items] Product Information [Line Items] Write-downs of inventories to net realizable value Inventory Write-down Write-down of inventories effect on net income (loss) per share Unusual or Infrequent Item, Earnings Per Share Impact, Net Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Stock-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Other non-cash based compensation expense Other Noncash Expense Intangible asset impairment charge Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Secured notes (due 2012) discount amortization expense Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Change in fair value of derivative instruments Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Other Deferred Liability Loss on disposal of property and equipment Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Other non-cash items, net Other Noncash Income (Expense) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, excluding the effects of the acquisition of a variable interest entity (Alios): Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Prepaid expenses and other current assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Liabilities and Other Operating Liabilities Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Operating Activities Accrued restructuring expense Restructuring Reserve, Period Increase (Decrease) Income taxes payable (Alios) Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Payable Deferred revenues Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Purchases of marketable securities Payments to Acquire Available-for-sale Securities Sales and maturities of marketable securities Proceeds from Sale and Maturity of Available-for-sale Securities Payment for acquisition of a variable interest entity (Alios) Payments to Acquire Intangible Assets Expenditures for property and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Decrease (increase) in restricted cash and cash equivalents (Alios) Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash and Investments Decrease (increase) in other assets Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation, Financing Activities Issuances of common stock from employee benefit plans Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Issuance of convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2015) Payments to redeem secured notes (due 2012) Repayments of Debt Settlement of milestone derivatives Payments for Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Payments on capital lease obligations Repayments of Long-term Capital Lease Obligations Payments on construction financing lease obligation Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Debt conversion costs Payments of Debt Restructuring Costs Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents—end of period Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Cash paid for income taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Conversion of convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2013) for common stock Debt Conversion or Exchange, Converted or Exchanged Instrument Amount The value of the financial instrument(s) that the original debt is being converted or exchanged into in a noncash (or part noncash) transaction. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Accrued interest offset to additional paid-in capital on conversion of convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2013) Debt Conversion or Exchange, Accrued Interest Amount Accrued interest offset to additional paid-in capital on conversion/exchange of convertible notes. Unamortized debt issuance costs of converted convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2013) offset to additional paid-in capital Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Capitalization of construction in-process related to construction financing lease obligation Noncash or Part Noncash Acquisition, Fixed Assets Acquired Assets acquired under capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Incurred September 2009 Financial Transactions Financing Transaction Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of significant financing transactions, including issuance of debt and sale of potential future revenue stream. Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Alios Bio Pharma Inc 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] Research and Development Arrangement Research and Development Arrangement [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] VX-222Asset [Member] VX222asset [Member] VX-222 VX759Asset [Member] VX759Asset [Member] VX-759 Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items] Change in deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Income Taxes Deferred tax liability from intangible assets Sales, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense [Abstract] Advertising Expenses Advertising Expense Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain] Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense [Member] Sales, general and administrative expenses Selling General and Administrative Expense [Member] The allocation (or location) of expense to (in) selling, general and administrative expense. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain] Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee Stock [Member] Stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted stock and restricted stock units Employee Restricted Stock Option [Member] An arrangement whereby certain members of senior management are entitled to receive in the future, subject to vesting and other restrictions, a number of shares in the entity at a specified price, as defined in the agreement. ESPP share issuances Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Axis] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Axis] This element represents the grouping of share-based compensation award types. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Domain] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type [Domain] This element represents an individual share-based compensation award type. Stock Options: Stock Option [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Stock-based compensation expense: Share-based Compensation Allocation [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Total stock-based compensation expense included in costs and expenses Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Less stock-based compensation expense capitalized to inventories Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Capitalized Amount Type of award: Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Aggregate Disclosures [Abstract] Unrecognized Expense, Net of Estimated Forfeitures Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted-average Recognition Period (in years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Weighted-average assumptions for options and ESPP subscriptions granted Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Expected stock price volatility (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Risk-free interest rate (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Expected annual dividends estimate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Payments Weighted average fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant-date fair value, granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Schedule of components of income (loss) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block] Schedule of components of provision for (benefit from) income taxes Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the provision for (benefit from) income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Continuing Operations, Income Tax Reconciliation [Table Text Block] This block of text may be used to disclose all or parts of the required information for reconciliation of income tax provisions. Schedule of unrecognized tax benefits Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Schedule of deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Debt Offerings, Fair Value Disclosure Debt Offerings, Fair Value Disclosure [Line Items] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Fair value of convertible senior subordinated notes Convertible Debt, Fair Value Disclosures Gross proceeds from sale of royalty rights receivable from GlaxoSmithKline Proceeds from Sale of Royalty Rights The cash inflow from the sale of the entity's right to receive future royalty payments. Deferred revenues related to the one-time cash payment agreement with GlaxoSmithKline Deferred Revenue Royalty Purchase Agreement This element represents the carrying value of deferred revenue recorded with regard to agreement to sell rights to receive royalty payments, as on the balance sheet date. 2012 Notes Secured Debt [Abstract] Face amount of 2012 Notes Debt Instrument, Increase, Additional Borrowings Proceeds from issuance of 2012 Notes Proceeds from Issuance of Secured Debt Proceeds from milestone payment related to the acceptance of Janssen's MAA Proceeds from Milestone Payment Represents the proceeds from milestone payment related to the acceptance of Janssen's marketing authorization application. Portion of 2012 Notes redeemed upon achievement of certain approval milestone pursuant to the Janssen collaboration Collaborative Arrangement Portion of Notes Redeemed upon Approval Milestone The portion of the 2012 Notes that will be redeemed upon achieving certain approval milestone pursuant to the Janssen collaboration. Earned remaining milestone payment to be received in the fourth quarter of 2011 Collaborative Arrangement Milestone Payment Earned Represents the milestone payment earned. Sale of Contingent Milestone Payments Collaborative Arrangement [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Number of purchase agreements entered into related to sale of contingent launch milestone payments pursuant to the Janssen collaboration Collaborative Arrangement, Number of Purchase Agreements Related to Sale of Future Milestone Payments The number of purchase agreements entered into related to the sale of potential future launch milestone payments pursuant to the Janssen collaboration Value of potential contingent launch milestone payments sold pursuant to the Janssen collaboration Collaborative Arrangement, Aggregate Value of Future Milestone Payments Sold The aggregate value of potential future launch milestone payments to be received pursuant to the Janssen collaboration agreement that have been sold to a third party. Proceeds from sale of potential contingent launch milestone payments pursuant to the Janssen collaboration Proceeds from Sale of Collaborative Arrangement Future Milestone Payments The cash inflow from the sale of potential future launch milestone payments receivable under the Janssen collaborative arrangement. Expenses and Losses (Gains): Expenses and Gains (Losses) [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Interest expense related to 2012 Notes Interest Expense, Debt Change in fair value of embedded derivative related to 2012 Notes Embedded Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Embedded Derivative, Net Change in fair value of free-standing derivatives related to the sale of milestone payments Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Total September 2009 financial transaction expenses September 2009, Financial Transaction Expenses The total September 2009 financial transaction expenses. Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Stock-based Compensation Expense Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Common Stock, Preferred Stock and Equity Plans Common Stock, Preferred Stock and Equity Plans Stock and Stock Option Equity Plans Schedule of Stock and Stock Option, Equity Plans [Table Text Block] This schedule discloses the information pertaining to stock and stock option plans relating to the entity's equity. Outstanding and vested options Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Stock options outstanding and exercisable Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Restricted stock activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Activity [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the number and weighted-average grant date fair value for restricted stock that were outstanding at the beginning and end of the year, and the number of shares of restricted stock that were granted, vested, or forfeited during the year. Shares issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventories by Product Schedule of Product Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Inventories by Type Schedule of Inventory, Current [Table Text Block] Inventory, Raw Materials Inventory, Raw Materials, Net of Reserves Inventory, Work in Process Inventory, Work in Process, Net of Reserves Inventory, Finished Goods Inventory, Finished Goods, Net of Reserves Total Calculation of net income (loss) per basic and diluted share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Potential gross common equivalent shares Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Furniture and equipment Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Leasehold improvements Leasehold Improvements [Member] Software Software [Member] Computers Computer Equipment [Member] Construction-in-process Construction in Progress [Member] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Total property and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Total property and equipment, net Capital leased assets, gross Capital Leased Assets, Gross Capital leases accumulated depreciation Capital Leases, Lessee Balance Sheet, Assets by Major Class, Accumulated Depreciation Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation Revenues by Product Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Revenues and Property and Equipment by Location Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Significant Customers Schedules of Concentration of Risk, by Risk Factor [Table Text Block] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Trade allowances Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member] Rebates, Chargebacks and Discounts Rebates Chargebacks and Discounts [Member] A valuation allowance for amounts due to the entity for rebates, chargebacks and discounts in the normal course of business that are expected to be uncollectible. Product Returns Allowance for Sales Returns [Member] Other Incentives Copay Mitigation Rebates [Member] A valuation allowance for amounts due to the entity for copay mitigation rebates in the normal course of business that are expected to be uncollectible. Product revenues allowances and reserve categories Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Number of products Number of Products Number of Products Net income (loss) attributable to Vertex Basic EPS Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities This element represents the carrying value as of the balance sheet date of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities. Product revenues, net Product Revenues Net [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Discount rate for payments made within 30 days (percent) Discount Rate for Payments Made within 30 Days Represents the discount rate to distributors for payments made within 30 days. Period prior to the labeled expiration date in which distributors have right to return unopened, unprescribed INCIVEK (teleprevir) (in months) Period Prior to Expiration Date which Distributors have Right to Return Product Represents the period prior to the labeled expiration date in which distributors have right to return unopened, unprescribed products of the reporting entity. Period after the labeled expiration date in which distributors have right to return unopened, unprescribed INCIVEK (teleprevir) (in months) Period after Expiration Date which Distributors have Right to Return Product Represents the period after the labeled expiration date in which distributors have right to return unopened, unprescribed products of the reporting entity. Activity related to product revenues allowances and reserve categories Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance, Beginning of Period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Provision related to current period sales Valuation Allowances and Reserves Provision Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, charged to product revenues. Adjustments related to prior period sales Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments Credits/payments made Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Sales Credits or Payments, Current Represents the credits or payments to allowances and reserves. Balance, End of Period Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Inventories Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Marketable Securities Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Marketable Securities [Text Block] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Components of income (loss) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] United States Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic Foreign Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign Income (loss) before provision for (benefit from) income taxes Current taxes: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] United States Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) State Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current taxes Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred taxes: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] United States Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Foreign Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Collaborative Arrangements Collaborative Arrangement Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Total Vertex Shareholders' Equity Parent [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Noncontrolling Interest (Alios) Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest (Alios) Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests [Member] This element represents that portion of redeemable noncontrolling interests (temporary equity). Statement Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance (shares) Shares, Outstanding Balance Unrealized holding gains (losses) on marketable securities, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Foreign currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Net income (loss) attributable to Vertex common shareholders Issuances of common stock: Issuances of Common Stock [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2013) conversion (shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares Exchange for Convertible Subordinated Notes The number of shares of stock issued during the period in exchange for convertible subordinated notes. Convertible senior subordinated notes (due 2013) conversion Stock Issued During Period Exchange for Convertible Subordinated Notes Value of stock issued during the period in exchange for convertible subordinated notes. Benefit plans (shares) Benefit plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Benefit Plan Stock-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Tax benefit from equity compensation Adjustment to Additional Paid in Capital, Income Tax Effect from Share-based Compensation, Net Alios noncontrolling interest upon consolidation Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Change in liquidation value of noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Balance (shares) Balance Common Stock, Preferred Stock and Equity Plans Common Stock, Preferred Stock and Equity Plans Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosures related to shares available for future issuance, descriptions of the stock and option plans, and the rights associated with each share. Revenues: Revenues [Abstract] Royalty revenues Collaborative revenues Costs and expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of product revenues Cost of Goods Sold Royalty expenses Direct Operating Cost, Royalty Expense Research and development expenses Research and Development Expense Sales, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Restructuring expense (credit) Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Income (loss) from operations Operating Income (Loss) Interest income Investment Income, Interest Interest expense Interest Expense Change in fair value of derivative instruments Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Provision for (benefit from) income taxes Net income (loss) Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling Interest (Alios) Net income (loss) per share attributable to Vertex common shareholders: Basic Diluted Shares used in per share calculations: Basic Diluted Asset Impairment Charges Asset Impairment Charges Stock-based compensation expense by line item Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Stock-based compensation expense by type of award Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures Schedule of Unrecognized Share-based Compensation Expense [Text Block] Disclosure as of the latest balance-sheet date presented of the total compensation cost related to outstanding, nonvested share-based compensation awards not yet recognized, net of estimated forfeitures, and the weighted average period over which those unrecognized costs are expected to be reported. Schedule of assumptions used to estimate the grant date fair value of options Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of assumptions used to estimate the grant date fair value employee stock purchase plan Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Lease restructuring and other operating lease expense Lease Restructuring and Other Operating Lease Expense [Member] The lease restructuring and other operating lease expense incurred by the entity. Employee severance, benefits and related costs Employee Severance Benefits and Related Costs [Member] The employee severance, benefits and related costs incurred by the entity. Leasehold improvements and asset impairments Leasehold Improvements and Asset Impairments [Member] The leasehold improvements and asset impairments made by the entity. Kendall Square Facility Facility Closing [Member] Restructuring and Related Activities [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Kendall Square Lease Restructuring Reserve [Abstract] Leased area (in square feet) Leased Facility Area Total area of space available to occupy at a specific site under a lease agreement that was initially vacated under the restructuring plan, stated in square feet. Lease term (in years) Lease Term Total length of time of a real estate lease, stated in years. Occupied leased area (in square feet) Discount rate, lease restructuring liability (as a percent) Lease Restructuring Liability Accrual Discount Rate The credit-adjusted risk-free discount rate applied to the undiscounted amount of projected cash inflows and/or outflows to arrive at the present value of the lease restructuring liability recorded as of the balance sheet date. Lease restructuring liability Cash payments Non-cash write-off in 2003 Noncash Write-off of Restructuring and Related Costs This element represents the noncash write-off of restructuring and related costs. Lease restructuring expense Restructuring and Related Cost Incurred, Lease Restructuring Expense Discloses the amount charged against the accrued restructuring reserves, or earnings if not previously accrued, during the period for lease restructuring expense. Lease operating expense Restructuring and Related Cost Incurred, Lease Operating Expense Discloses the amount charged against the accrued restructuring reserves, or earnings if not previously accrued, during the period for lease operating expense. Computers and software Computers and Software [Member] Represents the computer and software used in business. Property and equipment useful life, minimum (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Property and equipment useful life, maximum (in years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Foreign Currency Translation Foreign Currency Translation [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Foreign currency transaction gain (loss), before tax Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Restructuring and other liabilities Schedule of Restructuring Charges, Payments, Write-offs, and Resulting Liability [Text Block] Description and amount of restructuring costs by type of cost including the initial cost, cash payments made, non-cash write-offs, and the resulting liability at the end of the period when the restructuring occurred. Activity related to the restructuring liability Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of product revenues (Note F) Income (loss) from operations Net Income (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Vertex Common Stockholders Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Basis of Presentation Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration of Credit Risk [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy relating to any concentrations existing at the date of the financial statements that make the entity vulnerable to a reasonably possible, near-term, severe impact. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Marketable Securities Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-based Compensation Expense Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Research and Development Expenses Research, Development, and Computer Software, Policy [Policy Text Block] Advertising Expenses Advertising Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventories Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capital Leases Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Financial Transaction Expenses Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations and Other Purchase of Business Transactions, Policy [Policy Text Block] Variable Interest Entities Variable Interest Entities Policy [Text Block] Disclosure of variable interest entities collaboration agreements. Fair Value of In-Process Research and Development Asset and Contingent payments in Business Combinations In-process Research and Development Assets and Contingent Payments [Policy Text Block] Disclosure of accounting policy for costs assigned to identifiable tangible and intangible assets and contingent payments of an acquired entity to be used in the research and development activities of the combined enterprise. In-process Research and Development Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Indefinite-Lived Assets [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for indefinite-lived intangible assets (that is, those intangible assets not subject to amortization). This accounting policy also may address how the entity assesses whether events and circumstances continue to support an indefinite useful life and how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets. Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Embedded Derivatives Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restructuring Expense Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities or Restructurings, Policy [Policy Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss) Policy Text Block Describes an entity's components of comprehensive income. Comprehensive income is the change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. May include foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, and unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Net Income (Loss) Per Share Attributable to Vertex Common Stockholders Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recent Accounting Pronouncements [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements. 2006 Stock and Option Plan Stock and Option Plan 2006 [Member] The element describes the details pertaining to the 2006 Stock and Option Plan. 1996 Stock and Option Plan Stock and Option Plan 1996 [Member] The element describes the details pertaining to the 1996 Stock and Option Plan. Common Stock, Votes Per Share Common Stock, Votes Per Share Common Stock, Votes Per Share Awards Outstanding (shares) Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Outstanding, Number Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Outstanding, Number Additional awards authorized for grant (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Approved increase in number of shares authorized for issuance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Increase (Decrease) Represents the annual increase (decrease) in the number of shares of common stock that are available for issuance under a stock-based compensation plan, authorized by an amendment to the plan, unless changed by the Board of Directors. Grant price of outstanding restricted stock and restricted stock units (in dollars per share) Outstanding Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Grant Price The price at which all shares of outstanding restricted stock and restricted stock units had been granted. Outstanding and exercisable options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Stock options outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Stock options granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Stock options exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Stock options forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Stock options expired (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period Stock options outstanding at end of period (in shares) Stock options exercisable at end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Total exercisable or expected to vest, stock options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Number Weighted average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted-average exercise price outstanding at beginning of period (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, granted (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, exercised (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, forfeited (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average exercise price, expired (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average exercise price outstanding at end of period (usd per share) Weighted average exercise price exercisable at the end of the period (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Total exercisable or expected to vest, weighted average exercise price (usd per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted-average Remaining Contractual Life Weighted Average, Remaining Contractual Life [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Weighted-average Remaining Contractual Life, outstanding (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average Remaining Contractual Life, exercisable (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted-average Remaining Contractual Life, total exercisable or expected to vest (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value, total exercisable or expected to vest Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Total Intrinsic Value and Cash Received Total Intrinsic Value and Cash Received [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Market price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Market Price This element represents the market value per share on the last trading day of the year based on the average of the high and low price on that date. Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Total cash received from employees as a result of employee stock option exercises Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Received from Exercise of Stock Options Collaborator revenues Schedule of Recognized Collaborative Revenue [Table Text Block] This element represents the revenues related to the collaboration recognized by the entity during the period. Summary of activity related to net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest (Alios) Schedule of Collaborative Arrangement Activity Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Table Text Block] Represents the summary of activity related to the Alios Collaboration. Summary of Alios' items included in the Company's consolidated balance sheets Schedule of Collaborative Arrangement Summary of Items Related to Alios Collaboration [Table Text Block] Represents details pertaining to Alios' assets and liabilities included in the company's consolidated balance sheets. Number of leases Lease Agreement, Number of Leases Represents the number of leases entered by the reporting entity. Area of leased property (in square feet) Square Footage of Leased Property The amount of area of square footage of office and laboratory space related to the leased property. Number of buildings under lease agreement Lease Agreements Number of Buildings Represents number of buildings under lease agreements. Legal Proceedings [Abstract] Legal Proceedings [Abstract] Legal Proceedings Legal Matters and Contingencies [Text Block] Schedule of quarterly financial data Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Commitments Commitments Disclosure [Text Block] Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Changes in other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustment Total changes in other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interest (Alios) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Vertex Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Employee Benefits Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Range of Exercise Prices, $9.07-$20.00 Exercise Price Range from Dollars 9.07 to Dollars 20.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from $9.07 to $20.00 per share for the purpose of disclosing shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock options, as well as other option information. Range of Exercise Prices, $20.01-$30.00 Exercise Price Range from Dollars 20.01 to Dollars 30.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from $20.01 to $30.00 per share for the purpose of disclosing shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock options, as well as other option information. Range of Exercise Prices, $30.01-$40.00 Exercise Price Range from Dollars 30.01 to Dollars 40.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from $30.01 to $40.00 per share for the purpose of disclosing shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock options, as well as other option information. Range of Exercise Prices, $40.01-$50.00 Exercise Price Range from Dollars 40.01 to Dollars 50.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from $40.01 to $50.00 per share for the purpose of disclosing shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock options, as well as other option information. Range of Exercise Prices, $50.01-$60.00 Exercise Price Range from Dollars 50.01 to Dollars 60.00 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from $50.01 to $60.00 per share for the purpose of disclosing shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock options, as well as other option information. Price Range From Dollars $60.01-$64.30 Exercise Price Range From Dollars 60.01 to 64.30 [Member] Represents the range of exercise prices from $60.01 to $64.30 per share for the purpose of disclosing shares potentially issuable under outstanding stock options, as well as other option information. Stock options outstanding and exercisable Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Exercise price, low end of range (usd per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Exercise price, high end of range (usd per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Exercise price range, options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Outstanding Options Exercise price range, options outstanding, weighted-average remaining contractual life (in years) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Exercise price range, options outstanding, weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price, Beginning Balance Exercise price range, options exercisable (in shares) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Number of Exercisable Options Exercise price range, options exercisable, weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price Restricted stock Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Restricted stock, as of the beginning of the period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Restricted stock, granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Restricted stock, vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Restricted stock, cancelled (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Restricted stock, as of the end of the period (in shares) Restricted stock, weighted-average grant-date fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted-average grant-date fair value, as of the beginning of the period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant-date fair value, granted (in dollars per share) Weighted-average grant-date fair value, vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant-date fair value, cancelled (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average grant-date fair value, as of the end of the period (in dollars per share) Vested in period, total fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Employee Stock Purchase Plan Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares in ESOP [Abstract] Share purchase period range, maximum Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Share Purchase Period Duration The period of time during which an eligible employee may purchase a limited number of shares under the plan. Eligible employee purchase price percentage of fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Eligible Employee Purchase Price Percentage of Fair Value This element represents the percentage of the fair market value of the entity's common stock on the first day of the applicable offering period or last day of the applicable purchase period that eligible employees may purchase shares of the entity's common stock under the employee stock purchase plan. Initial offering period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Initial Offering Period A description of the time period when the company made its initial offering of a class of securities. Number of shares authorized Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Number of shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Average price paid per share Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Per Share Weighted Average Price of Shares Purchased Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Number of Share Purchase Periods Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Number of Share Purchase Periods Share-based Compensation Arrangement By Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Number of Share Purchase Periods Guarantees [Abstract] Guarantees Guarantees [Text Block] Schedule of Property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Total Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Level 2 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type Categorization [Domain] Investment Type Categorization [Domain] Money market funds Money Market Funds [Member] Commercial paper Corporate debt securities Corporate Debt Securities [Member] Fair value of financial assets and liabilities Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Financial assets carried at fair value: Assets, Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract] Cash equivalents: Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure Marketable securities: Marketable Securities Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Total Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Cash equivalents (Alios) Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Intangible Assets and Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Future minimum commitments under Fan Pier Leases and facilitiy operating leases with terms of more than one year, net of estimated sublease income Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases Net of Estimated Sublease Income [Table Text Block] For operating leases having initial or remaining lease terms of more than one year, the future minimum payments required as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented, in the aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years. Also includes a disclosure of the total minimum sublease rentals to be received, in the aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, under noncancelable subleases as of the date of the latest balance sheet presented. Schedule of future minimum lease payments for capital leases Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases [Table Text Block]