Name:	us-gaap_CollaborativeArrangementsAndNoncollaborativeArrangementTransactionsLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

This element represents the additional annual funding under collaborative agreement 2016 amendment for research and development.

No definition available.

Name:	vrtx_AdditionalCollaborativeFunding
Namespace Prefix:	vrtx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

This element represents the additional expenses recorded for milestone payments.

No definition available.

Name:	vrtx_AdditionalMilestonePayments
Namespace Prefix:	vrtx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration

This element represents the funding under collaborative agreement 2016 amendment for research and development.

No definition available.

Name:	vrtx_CollaborativeArrangementResearchDevelopmentFunding
Namespace Prefix:	vrtx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

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.

No definition available.

Name:	vrtx_CollaborativeRevenues
Namespace Prefix:	vrtx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	duration

This element represents the expenses recorded for milestone payments.

No definition available.