Consolidated and combined statement of convertible preferred stock and stockholders' deficit (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013
Exchangeable Preferred Shares [Member]
Temporary equity, warrant discount of $68,920 on issuance of Aquinox USA preferred shares	$ 68,920
Temporary equity, redemption discount of $466,673 for AQXP Canada and $1,633,357 for Aquinox USA on issuance of preferred shares	1,633,357
Exchangeable Preferred Shares [Member] | Aquinox Pharmaceuticals (Canada) Inc. [Member]
Temporary equity, redemption discount of $466,673 for AQXP Canada and $1,633,357 for Aquinox USA on issuance of preferred shares	$ 466,673