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BUSINESS COMBINATIONS - Estimated Fair Value of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Aug. 05, 2013
Dec. 11, 2012
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Goodwill $ 9,346.4us-gaap_Goodwill $ 9,752.1us-gaap_Goodwill $ 5,141.4us-gaap_Goodwill    
2014 Other Business Combinations          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents 33.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Accounts receivable 82.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Assets held for sale 125.7vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsAssetsHeldforsale
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Inventories 155.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Other current assets 18.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Property, plant and equipment 57.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 720.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Acquired IPR&D 63.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Other non-current assets 2.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Current liabilities (163.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Long-term debt, including current portion (11.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Deferred income taxes, net (93.4)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Other non-current liabilities (13.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Total identifiable net assets 975.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Noncontrolling interest (15.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Goodwill 396.3us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred 1,356.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
       
2014 Other Business Combinations | Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Date (as previously reported)          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents 33.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Accounts receivable 87.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Assets held for sale 125.7vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsAssetsHeldforsale
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Inventories 170.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Other current assets 19.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Property, plant and equipment 58.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 697.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Acquired IPR&D 65.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Other non-current assets 4.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Current liabilities (152.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Long-term debt, including current portion (11.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Deferred income taxes, net (116.0)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Other non-current liabilities (13.4)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Total identifiable net assets 969.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Noncontrolling interest (15.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Goodwill 410.4us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred 1,364.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
       
2014 Other Business Combinations | Measurement Period Adjustments          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents (0.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Accounts receivable (5.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Assets held for sale 0vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsAssetsHeldforsale
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Inventories (14.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other current assets (1.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Property, plant and equipment (1.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 23.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Acquired IPR&D (2.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other non-current assets (2.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Current liabilities (11.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Long-term debt, including current portion 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Deferred income taxes, net 22.6vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other non-current liabilities (0.1)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Total identifiable net assets 6.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Noncontrolling interest 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Goodwill (14.1)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred (7.9)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BusinessCombinations2014Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
B&L          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents 178.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Accounts receivable 540.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Inventories 641.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Other current assets 146.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Property, plant and equipment 794.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 4,333.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Acquired IPR&D 415.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Other non-current assets 56.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Current liabilities (883.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Long-term debt, including current portion (4,209.9)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Deferred income taxes, net (1,374.9)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Deferred tax liability, net (1,436.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Other non-current liabilities (281.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Total identifiable net assets 358.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Noncontrolling interest (102.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Goodwill 4,358.0us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred 4,613.3us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
       
B&L | Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Date (as previously reported)          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents       209.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Accounts receivable       547.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Inventories       675.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Other current assets       146.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Property, plant and equipment       761.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D       4,316.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Acquired IPR&D       398.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Other non-current assets       58.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Current liabilities       (885.6)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Long-term debt, including current portion       (4,209.9)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Deferred income taxes, net       (1,410.9)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Other non-current liabilities       (280.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Total identifiable net assets       327.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Noncontrolling interest       (102.3)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Goodwill       4,388.0us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
Total fair value of consideration transferred       4,613.3us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
 
B&L | Measurement Period Adjustments          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents (31.4)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Accounts receivable (7.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Inventories (34.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other current assets 0.3us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Property, plant and equipment 33.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 17.3us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Acquired IPR&D 17.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other non-current assets (1.9)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Current liabilities 2.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Long-term debt, including current portion 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Deferred income taxes, net 36.0vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other non-current liabilities (1.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Total identifiable net assets 30.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Noncontrolling interest (0.4)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Goodwill (30.0)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_BLMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
2013 Other Business Combinations          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents 43.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Accounts receivable 64.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Inventories 35.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Other current assets 14.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Property, plant and equipment 10.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 726.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Acquired IPR&D 18.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Indemnification assets 2.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIndemnificationAssetsAmountAsOfAcquisitionDate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Other non-current assets 3.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Current liabilities (36.6)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Short-term borrowings (32.8)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedShortTermBorrowings
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Long-term debt, including current portion (24.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Deferred tax liability, net (148.9)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Other non-current liabilities (1.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Total identifiable net assets 676.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Noncontrolling interest (11.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Goodwill 233.3us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred 898.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
898.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
     
2013 Other Business Combinations | Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Date (as previously reported)          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents   43.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Accounts receivable   64.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Inventories   33.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Other current assets   14.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Property, plant and equipment   13.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D   722.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Acquired IPR&D   18.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Indemnification assets   3.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIndemnificationAssetsAmountAsOfAcquisitionDate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Other non-current assets   0.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Current liabilities   (36.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Short-term borrowings   (33.3)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedShortTermBorrowings
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Long-term debt, including current portion   (24.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Deferred tax liability, net   (147.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Other non-current liabilities   (1.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Total identifiable net assets   670.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Noncontrolling interest   (11.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Goodwill   224.3us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
Total fair value of consideration transferred   883.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
     
2013 Other Business Combinations | Measurement Period Adjustments          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Accounts receivable 0.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Inventories 1.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other current assets 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Property, plant and equipment (3.3)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D 3.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Acquired IPR&D 0.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Indemnification assets (0.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIndemnificationAssetsAmountAsOfAcquisitionDate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other non-current assets 3.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Current liabilities (0.4)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Short-term borrowings 0.5vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedShortTermBorrowings
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Long-term debt, including current portion 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Deferred tax liability, net (1.1)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Other non-current liabilities 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Total identifiable net assets 5.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Noncontrolling interest 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Goodwill 9.0us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Total fair value of consideration transferred 14.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= us-gaap_SeriesOfIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
       
Medicis          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents   169.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Accounts receivable   90.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Inventories   137.5us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Short-term and long-term investments   626.6vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsShortTermandLongTermInvestments
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Income taxes receivable   40.4vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsIncomeTaxesReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Other current assets   74.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Property, plant and equipment   2.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D   1,368.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Acquired IPR&D   159.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Other non-current assets   0.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Current liabilities   (466.3)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Long-term debt, including current portion   (778.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Deferred income taxes, net   (192.8)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Other non-current liabilities   (8.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Total identifiable net assets   1,224.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Goodwill   1,354.0us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Total fair value of consideration transferred   2,578.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
     
Medicis | Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Date (as previously reported)          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents         169.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Accounts receivable         81.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Inventories         145.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Short-term and long-term investments         626.6vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsShortTermandLongTermInvestments
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Income taxes receivable         40.4vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsIncomeTaxesReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Other current assets         74.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Property, plant and equipment         8.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D         1,390.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Acquired IPR&D         153.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Other non-current assets         0.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Current liabilities         (453.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Long-term debt, including current portion         (778.0)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Deferred income taxes, net         (205.0)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Other non-current liabilities         (8.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Total identifiable net assets         1,245.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Goodwill         1,333.8us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Total fair value of consideration transferred         2,578.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
Medicis | Measurement Period Adjustments          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Accounts receivable   9.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Inventories   (7.6)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Short-term and long-term investments   0vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsShortTermandLongTermInvestments
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Income taxes receivable   0vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsIncomeTaxesReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Other current assets   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Property, plant and equipment   (5.6)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D   (21.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Acquired IPR&D   6.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Other non-current assets   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Current liabilities   (12.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Long-term debt, including current portion   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Deferred income taxes, net   12.2vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Other non-current liabilities   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Total identifiable net assets   (20.2)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Goodwill   20.2us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Total fair value of consideration transferred   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_MedicisPharmaceuticalCorporationMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
2012 Other Business Combinations          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents   21.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Accounts receivable   40.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Assets held for sale   15.6vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsAssetsHeldforsale
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Inventories   59.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Other current assets   6.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Property, plant and equipment   17.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D   1,070.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Acquired IPR&D   29.8us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Indemnification assets   27.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIndemnificationAssetsAmountAsOfAcquisitionDate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Other non-current assets   1.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Current liabilities   (42.5)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Long-term debt, including current portion   (38.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Liability for uncertain tax position   0vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilityforUncertainTaxPosition
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Deferred income taxes, net   (166.0)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Other non-current liabilities   (28.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Total identifiable net assets   1,013.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Goodwill   182.1us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
     
Total fair value of consideration transferred   1,196.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
1,200.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
   
2012 Other Business Combinations | Amounts Recognized as of Acquisition Date (as previously reported)          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents     21.4us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Accounts receivable     40.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Assets held for sale     15.6vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsAssetsHeldforsale
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Inventories     68.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Other current assets     6.6us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Property, plant and equipment     17.2us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D     1,133.0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Acquired IPR&D     16.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Indemnification assets     27.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIndemnificationAssetsAmountAsOfAcquisitionDate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Other non-current assets     1.9us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Current liabilities     (41.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Long-term debt, including current portion     (38.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Liability for uncertain tax position     (6.7)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilityforUncertainTaxPosition
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Deferred income taxes, net     (184.8)vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Other non-current liabilities     (28.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Total identifiable net assets     1,047.7us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Goodwill     157.4us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
Total fair value of consideration transferred     1,205.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioPreviouslyReportedMember
   
2012 Other Business Combinations | Measurement Period Adjustments          
Assets acquired and liabilities assumed          
Cash and cash equivalents   (0.3)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCashAndEquivalents
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Accounts receivable   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Assets held for sale   0vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsAssetsHeldforsale
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Inventories   (8.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Other current assets   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsPrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Property, plant and equipment   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Identifiable intangible assets, excluding acquired IPR&D   (62.6)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibles
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Acquired IPR&D   13.1us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Indemnification assets   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationIndemnificationAssetsAmountAsOfAcquisitionDate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Other non-current assets   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Current liabilities   (0.7)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentLiabilities
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Long-term debt, including current portion   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Liability for uncertain tax position   6.7vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedLiabilityforUncertainTaxPosition
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Deferred income taxes, net   18.8vrx_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredIncomeTaxNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Other non-current liabilities   0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Total identifiable net assets   (33.8)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Goodwill   24.7us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember
     
Total fair value of consideration transferred   $ (9.1)us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedLessNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= vrx_SeriesofIndividuallyImmaterialBusinessAcquisitionsPriorPeriodMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_ScenarioAdjustmentMember