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Equity method investments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
May 31, 2017
May 31, 2016
May 31, 2017
May 31, 2016
Aug. 31, 2016
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]          
Equity earnings (losses) $ (21) $ 15 $ 7 $ 35  
AmerisourceBergen          
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]          
Outstanding shares owned (in shares) 56,854,867   56,854,867   56,854,867
Ownership percentage 26.00%   26.00%   24.00%
Period of reporting lag     2 months    
Equity investment, exceeded its proportionate share of net assets $ 4,400   $ 4,400    
AmerisourceBergen | Level 1          
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]          
Fair market value of equity investment 5,200   5,200    
Other Investments          
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]          
Equity earnings (losses) $ (21) $ 15 $ 7 $ 35