XML 20 R33.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT v2.4.0.8

Basis of Presentation (Accounting for Share-Based Compensation) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2013
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense total	$ 3,027	$ 1,492	$ 5,093	$ 2,616
Research and development expenses
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense total	956	448	1,645	834
General and administrative expenses
Basis of Presentation [Line Items]
Share-based compensation expense total	$ 2,071	$ 1,044	$ 3,448	$ 1,782

X

- Details

Name:	lgnd_BasisOfPresentationLineItems
Namespace Prefix:	lgnd_
Data Type:	xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type:	na
Period Type:	duration

X

- Definition

The amount of expense, net of income tax, recognized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, unit, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees.

+ References

No definition available.

+ Details

Name:	us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpenseNetOfTax
Namespace Prefix:	us-gaap_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration