Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Description of Business and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk by Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member] Sales Revenue, Services, Net [Member] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk by Type [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Private Pay, third-party and facilities [Member] Private Pay, third-party and facilities [Member] The Omnicare customer segment including Private Pay, third-party and facilities [Member] Feredal Medicare program (Part D & Part B) [Member] Feredal Medicare program (Part D & Part B) [Member] Omnicare customer segment including feredal medicare programs Part D & Part B [Member] State Medicaid Programs [Member] State Medicaid Programs [Member] Omnicare customer segment including state medicaid programs [Member] Other sources [Member] Other sources [Member] Omnicare customer segment including all other sources [Member] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Income Statement [Abstract] Net sales Revenue, Net Cost of sales Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross profit Gross Profit Selling, general and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Settlement, litigation and other related charges Litigation And Other Professional Fees Amount charged against earnings for litigation related settlements and professional expenses primarily in connection with specifically identified legal proceedings. Goodwill and other asset impairment charges Asset Impairment Charges Separation, Benefit Plan Termination and Related Costs Separation, Benefit Plan Termination and Related Costs This element represents additional termination and settlement related expenses for costs related to the retirement of certain executives. And, the charge against earnings for termination of the benefit portion of the Company's excess benefit plan. Other miscellaneous charges Other Cost and Expense, Operating Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Investment income Investment Income, Interest and Dividend Interest expense Interest Expense Amortization of discount on convertible notes Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Income from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Loss from discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Earnings (loss) per common share - Basic: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic earnings per share, continuing operations (per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income Earnings Per Share, Basic Earnings (loss) per common share - Diluted: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted earnings per share, continuing operations plus assumed conversions (per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Diluted earnings per share, discontinued operations (per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Net income Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Weighted average number of common shares outstanding: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Common shares (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted shares (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Insurance Claim Reserve Policy for Health, Property and Casualty self insurance [Policy Text Block] Insurance Claim Reserve Policy for Health, Property and Casualty self insurance [Policy Text Block] Insurance Claim Reserve Policy for Health, Property and Casualty self insurance [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Loans and Leases Receivable, Valuation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Loans and Leases Receivable, Valuation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Shipping and Handling Cost, Policy [Policy Text Block] Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block] Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Comparability of Prior Year Financial Data, Policy [Policy Text Block] Comparability of Prior Year Financial Data, Policy [Policy Text Block] Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract] Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Gains (Losses) Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Actual Return on Plan Assets Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined Contribution Plan, Cost Recognized Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Discount Rate defined benefit plan, notes payable due to employees defined benefit plan, notes payable due to employees defined benefit plan, notes payable due to employees Rabbi Trust Fair Value Disclosure Rabbi Trust Fair Value Disclosure This element represents the portion of the balance sheet assertion valued at fair value by the entity whether such amount is presented as a separate caption or as a parenthetical disclosure. Additionally, this element may be used in connection with the fair value disclosures required in the footnote disclosures to the financial statements. The element may be used in both the balance sheet and disclosure in the same submission. This item represents assets held in a rabbi trust. Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Agreed upon separation agreement % interest earned on unpaid benefits for former President and Senior VP and Secretary Agreed upon separation agreement % interest earned on unpaid benefits for former President and Senior VP and Secretary Agreed upon separation agreement % interest earned on unpaid benefits for former President and Senior VP and Secretary gain on rabbi trust assets sold gain on rabbi trust assets sold gain on rabbi trust assets sold Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost Benefit Plan Termination and Related Costs Benefit Plan Termination and Related Costs Defined Benefit Plan, net periodic pension cost and benefit plan termination and related costs Defined Benefit Plan, net periodic pension cost and benefit plan termination and related costs Defined Benefit Plan, net periodic pension cost and benefit plan termination and related costs Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses Defined Benefit Plan, Actuarial Net (Gains) Losses Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) Defined Benefit Plan, Amortization of Net Gains (Losses) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Gain (Loss) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax percent of salary maximum contribution employee stock purchase plan Percent of salary maximum contribution employee stock purchase plan percent of salary maximum contribution employee stock purchase plan Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Benefit Obligation, Discount Rate Actualrial Assumptions used to calulate benefit obligation, discount rate Actualrial Assumptions used to calulate benefit obligation, discount rate Actualrial Assumptions used to calulate benefit obligation, discount rate Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Adjustment, before Tax future loss in other comprehensive income as a result of net periodic pension cost future loss in other comprehensive income as a result of net periodic pension cost future loss in other comprehensive income as a result of net periodic pension cost Actuarial assumption used to calculate benefit obligation, expected rate of return on assets Actuarial assumption used to calculate benefit obligation, expected rate of return on assets Actuarial assumption used to calculate benefit obligation, expected rate of return on assets maximum contribution to employee stock purchase plan Maximum contribution to employee stock purchase plan maximum contribution to employee stock purchase plan Actuarial Assumption used to calculated benefit obligation, rate of increase in compensation Actuarial Assumption used to calculated benefit obligation, rate of increase in compensation Actuarial Assumption used to calculated benefit obligation, rate of increase in compensation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Projected Benefit Payments for each of the next 10 years Projected Benefit Payments for each of the next 10 years Guarantor Subsidiaries [Abstract] Summary Consolidating Statements of Income (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) Summary Consolidating Statements of Income, Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable [Table Text Block] The entire disclosure for summary consolidating statements of income (unaudited) of the parent and subsidiaries company as of the same dates or for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements are being presented related to the entity's guaranteed senior notes payable disclosure. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets, Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable [Table Text Block] The entire disclosure for condensed consolidating balance sheets (unaudited) of the parent and subsidiaries company as of the same dates or for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements are being presented related to the entity's guaranteed senior notes payable disclosure. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows, Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable [Table Text Block] The entire disclosure for condensed consolidating statement of cash flows (unaudited) of the parent and subsidiaries company as of the same dates or for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements are being presented related to the entity's guaranteed senior notes payable disclosure. Summary Consolidating Statements of Income (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) Summary Consolidating Statements of Income, Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures [Table Text Block] The entire disclosure for summary consolidating statements of income (unaudited) of the parent and subsidiaries company as of the same dates or for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements are being presented related to the entity's guaranteed convertible senior debentures disclosure. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets, Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures [Table Text Block] The entire disclosure for condensed consolidating balance sheets (unaudited) of the parent and subsidiaries company as of the same dates or for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements are being presented related to the entity's guaranteed convertible senior debentures disclosure. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows, Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures [Table Text Block] The entire disclosure for condensed consolidating statement of cash flows (unaudited) of the parent and subsidiaries company as of the same dates or for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements are being presented related to the entity's guaranteed convertible senior debentures disclosure. Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract] Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Axis] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Domain] $15.46 - $23.17 [Member] $15.46 - $23.17 [Member] $15.46 - $23.17 [Member] $23.18 - $30.90 [Member] $23.18 - $30.90 [Member] $23.18 - $30.90 [Member] $30.91 - $38.61 [Member] $30.91 - $38.61 [Member] $30.91 - $38.61 [Member] $38.62 - $61.79 [Member] $38.62 - $61.79 [Member] $38.62 - $61.79 [Member] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items] Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Lower Range Limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range, Upper Range Limit Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Loss from discontinued operations Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash flows from operating activities: Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation expense Depreciation Amortization expense Amortization Write Off Of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Debt redemption tender premium Tender Premium This element represents premium related to repurchase of debt. Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment Goodwill and Intangible Asset Impairment Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisition and divestiture of businesses: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable and unbilled receivables, net of provision for doubtful accounts Increase (Decrease) in Receivables Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Other current and noncurrent assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Accrued employee compensation Increase (Decrease) in Employee Related Liabilities Deferred revenue Increase (Decrease) in Deferred Revenue Current and noncurrent liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Net cash flows from operating activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash flows from operating activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash flows from operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Acquisition of businesses, net of cash received Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Divestiture of business, net Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Benefit Plan Termination and Other Related Costs Increase (decrease) in cash transfers to trusts for employee benefit costs increase (decrease) in cash transfers to trusts for employee benefit costs Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash flows used in investing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash flows used in investing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash flows used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Payments on Term A loan (Payments of) Proceeds from Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loans Cash inflow or outflows on resulting from revolving credit arrangements and term loan under which borrowings can be made up to a specific amount at any point in time with maturities due beyond one year or beyond. Proceeds from long term borrowings and obligations Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payments on long-term borrowings and obligations Repayments of Other Long-term Debt Fees paid for financing arrangements Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Increase (decrease) in cash overdraft balance Proceeds from (Repayments of) Bank Overdrafts Proceeds (payments) for stock awards and exercise of stock options, net of stock tendered in payment Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Payments for Omnicare common stock repurchase (Note 2) Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Dividends paid Payments of Dividends, Common Stock Other Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash flows used in financing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash flows used in financing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Less increase in cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents of continuing operations Cash and Cash Equivalents Period Increase (Decrease) from Continuing Operations The net change between the beginning and ending balance of cash and cash equivalents from continuing operations. Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents at end of period Fair Value [Abstract] Fair Value [Abstract] Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Taxes [Abstract] Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Summary of Income Tax Contingencies [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Convertible Subordinated Debt [Member] Convertible Subordinated Debt [Member] Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures [Member] Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures [Member] A borrowing that has a lower priority than senior instruments in case of liquidation of the entity's asset and can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. 3.25% Convertible Senior Debentures, Due 2035 [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures325 Due2035 Member Convertible debentures in a senior position and due in year 2035. Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Income from continuing operations Net income (loss) Basic earnings per share, discontinued operations (per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Effect of Dilutive Securities [Abstract] Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share [Abstract] 4.00% junior subordinated convertible debentures Interest income jusnior subordinated debentures Interest income incurred during the reporting period on junior subordinated debentures. Includes amortization of expenses incurred in the issuance of subordinated notes and debentures. Stock options, warrants and awards Stock options, warrants and awards Related Income Income derived from stock options, warrants and awards. Interest Income Convertible Securities Interest Income Convertible Securities Interest Income Convertible Securities convertible debentures, common shares (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Conversion of Debt Securities Stock options, warrants and awards, common shares (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Share-based Payment Arrangements Diluted EPS [Abstract] Net income plus assumed conversions Net income plus assumed conversions The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest, plus income derived from interest on junior subordinated convertible debentures. Diluted earnings per share (per share) Income from continuing operations plus assumed conversions Income from continuing operations plus assumed conversions This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest, plus income derived from interest on junior subordinated convertible debentures. treasury stock method average share price to include dilutive securities treasury stock method average share price to include dilutive securities treasury stock method average share price to include dilutive securities Aggregate number of stock options, warrants and awards excluded from the computation of diluted EPS (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Nonvested shares, beginning of year (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Nonvested shares, beginning of year (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares awarded (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Shares awarded (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Shares vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Shares forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Shares forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Nonvested shares, end of year (in shares) Nonvested shares, end of year (in dollars per share) 3.75% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] 3.75% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes [Member] A borrowing that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer in case of bankruptcy and can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Percent stock price closes above conversion price for option of conversion Percent stock price closes above conversion price for option of conversion percent stock price closes above conversion price for option of conversion Deferred Finance Costs, Gross Deferred Finance Costs, Gross Amortization of Financing Costs Amortization of Financing Costs Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Discontinued Operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Revisions to Financial Statments [Abstract] Revisions to Financial Statments [Abstract] Schedule of Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments [Table Text Block] Common Stock Repurchase Program [Abstract] Common Stock Repurchase Program [Abstract] Common Stock Repurchase Program [Text Block] Common Stock Repurchase Program [Text Block] Common Stock Repurchase Program [Text Block] Guarantor Subsidiaries Schedules Of Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Schedule Of Condensed Financial Statements Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Parent Company [Member] Parent Company [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries [Member] Subsidiaries [Member] Consolidating, Eliminating Adjustments [Member] Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Guarantor Obligations by Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Guarantor Obligations by Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Senior Notes Payable [Member] Senior Notes Payable [Member] A borrowing supported by a written promise to pay an obligation. Senior notes takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer in case of bankruptcy. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Convertible SeniorDebentures [Member] Convertible Senior Debentures [Member] A borrowing that takes priority over other debt securities sold by the issuer in case of bankruptcy and can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Cumulative Payments of Relator's expenses and attorneys' fees for Michigan and Massachusetts Settlement Cumulative Payments of Relator's expenses and attorneys' fees for Michigan and Massachusetts Settlement Cumulative Payments of Relator's expenses and attorneys' fees for Michigan and Massachusetts Settlement Summary Consolidating Statements of Income (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) [Abstract] Summary Consolidating Statements of Income (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) [Abstract] Interest expense, including amortization of discount on convertible notes Interest expense, including amortization of discount on convertible notes Sum of interest expense and amortization of discount on convertible notes. Interest expense pertains to the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. Amortization of discount on convertible notes pertains to component of interest income or expense representing the periodic increase in or charge against earnings to reflect amortization of debt discounts and premiums over the life of the related debt instruments, which are liabilities of the entity. Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Equity of net income (loss) of subsidiaries Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) [Abstract] Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Investments, Current Accounts receivable, net (including intercompany) Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Inventories Inventory, Net Deferred income tax benefits, net-current Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Current assets of discontinued operations Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Properties and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Goodwill Identifiable intangible assets, net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Other noncurrent assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations Assets of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Noncurrent Investment in subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities - continuing operations (including intercompany) Current liabilities - continuing operations (including intercompany) Total obligations, except current liabilities of discontinued operations, incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Current liabilities of discontinued operations arise from the sale, disposal or planned sale in the near future (generally within one year) of a disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation). Current liabilities - discontinued operations Liabilities of Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Current Long-term debt, notes and convertible debentures Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Deferred income tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent Other noncurrent liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total stockholders' equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and stockholders' equity Liabilities and Equity Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) [Abstract] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Guaranteed Senior Notes Payable) [Abstract] Net cash flows (used in) from operating activities Increase (decrease) in cash transfers to trusts for employee benefit costs Other Investing Activities Other Investing Activities Sum of cash flows from other investing activities and investing activities cash flows from discontinued operations Net payments on revolving credit facilities and Term A loan Fees paid for financing arrangements Payments for Omnicare common stock repurchase Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Proceeds from (payments for) Other Financing Activities including disc Ops Proceeds from (payments for) Other Financing Activities including disc Ops Proceeds from (payments for) Other Financing Activities including disc Ops Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Net cash flows from (used in) financing activities Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Summary Consolidating Statements of Income (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) [Abstract] Summary Consolidating Statements of Income (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) [Abstract] Operating income (loss) Income (loss) from continuing operations Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) [Abstract] Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) [Abstract] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) [Abstract] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows (Guaranteed Convertible Senior Debentures) [Abstract] Accounts receivable reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Accrued liabilities Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities Pension obligations Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Pensions Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Gross deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Valuation allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Gross deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances Deferred Tax Assets, Net Amortization of intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets Contingent convertible debentures interest deferred tax liabilities, contingent convertible debentures interest deferred tax liabilities, contingent convertible debentures interest Fixed assets and depreciation methods Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Subsidiary stock basis deferred tax liabilities, subsidiary stock basis deferred tax liabilities, subsidiary stock basis Current and noncurrent assets Deferred tax liabilities, Current and noncurrent assets Deferred tax liabilities, Current and noncurrent assets Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Gross deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring and Other Related Charges Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule II and Index of Exhibits [Abstract] Schedule II and Index of Exhibits [Abstract] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member] Allowance for Trade Receivables [Member] Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Valuation Allowance of Deferred Tax Assets [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Charged to Cost and Expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Translation adjustment recorde as loss on sales of CRO Translation adjustment recorde as loss on sales of CRO Translation adjustment recorde as loss on sales of CRO Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive 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Company-wide Reorganization Plan [Member] Company-wide Reorganization Plan [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Severance and Employment Agreement Buy-outs - CWR Program [Member] Employee Severance [Member] Lease Termination - Omnicare Full Potential Plan [Member] Contract Termination [Member] employment agreement buy-outs [Member] employment agreement buy-outs [Member] employment agreement buy-outs [Member] Professional fees, facility exit costs and other [Member] Professional fees, facility exit costs and other [Member] Professional fees, facility exit costs and other [Member] Other assets, fees and facility exit costs [Member] Other assets, fees and facility exit costs [Member] Other assets, fees and facility exit costs [Member] Other Costs Related to Restructuring [Member] Other Costs Related to Restructuring [Member] Other Costs Related to Restructuring [Member] Restructuring and Other Related Charges [Member] Restructuring and Other Related Charges [Member] Charges related to restructuring activities. 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Restructuring Reserve, Period Expense Restructuring Reserve, Period Expense Restructuring liabilities [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring liabilities, beginning Restructuring Reserve Restructuring liabilities, utilized Restructuring Reserve, Settled with Cash Restructuring liabilities, ending Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Cost Incurred to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated, Inception to Date Restructuring and Related Cost, Number of Positions Eliminated, Inception to Date 6.125% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] 6.125% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] Senior Subordinated Notes 6125 due 2013 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes 6125 due 2013 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes 6125 due 2013 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2013 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2013 [Member] A long-term senior subordinated note, maturing on 2013. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Subordinated note holders places a lender in a lien position behind debt having a higher priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets Derivative, Cash Received on Hedge Derivative, Cash Received on Hedge Payments of Debt Extinguishment Costs Payments of Debt Extinguishment Costs Debt Instrument Maturity Date Debt instrument maturity date year Year a long-term debt instrument matures. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Options, outstanding, beginning of year (in shares) Options, outstanding, beginning of year (in dollars per share) Options granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Options granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Options exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period Options forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options, outstanding, end of year (in shares) Options, outstanding, end of year (in dollars per share) Options exercisable, end of year (in shares) Options exercisable, end of year (in dollars per share) Earnings (Loss) Per Share Data Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Useful Lives of Property and Equipment Useful Lives of Property and Equipment [Table] Useful Lives of Property and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Computer Equipment and Software [Member] Computer Equipment and Software [Member] Computer Equipment and Software [Member] Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] Land, Buildings and Improvements [Member] internally developed software [Member] internally developed software [Member] internally developed software [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Machinery and Equipment [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Property and Equipment Useful Lives Useful Lives of Property and Equipment [Line Items] Useful Lives of Property and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives Property, Plant and Equipment, Estimated Useful Lives Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Axis] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Domain] Omnicare General Pension Plan [Member] Omnicare General Pension Plan [Member] Omnicare General Pension Plan [Member] Omnicare General Pension Pland and Excess Benefit Plan Combined [Member] Omnicare General Pension Pland and Excess Benefit Plan Combined [Member] Omnicare General Pension Pland and Excess Benefit Plan Combined [Member] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined Benefit Plan, Contributions by Employer Defined Benefit Plan, Benefits Paid Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments Establishment of Notes Payable Related to Excess Benefit Plan Establishment of Notes Payable Related to Excess Benefit Plan Establishment of Notes Payable Related to Excess Benefit Plan Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Plan Assets, Aggregate Projected Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Accumulated Benefit Obligation Acquisitions [Abstract] Acquisitions [Abstract] Segment Information [Abstract] Segment Information [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segment [Domain] Long Term Care Group [Member] Long Term Care Group [Member] Long Term Care Group Reporting Segment specialty care group [Member] specialty care group [Member] specialty care group reporting segment [Member] Corporate/Other [Member] Corporate/Other [Member] Corporate/Other segment reporting group[Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenue, Net Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Litigation And Other Professional Fees Other miscellaneous charges, net Other Miscellaneous charges net of Repack matters COS Other Miscellaneous charges net of Repak matters COS Operating Income (Loss) Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Assumptions Used [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets [Table Text Block] 3.25% Convertible Senior Debentures [Abstract] 3.25% Convertible Senior Debentures [Abstract] Total consideration to complete debt extinguishment Total consideration to complete debt extinguishment total consideration to complete debt extinguishment Percent threshold average share price after stated period to allow cash distribution Percent threshold average share price after stated period to allow cash distribution Percent threshold average share price after stated period to allow cash distribution Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Long-term Debt, Gross Long-term Debt, Gross Accounting Policies [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Table] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on recurring basis [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Abstract] Assets [Abstract] Rabbi Trust Assets Total Assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities [Abstract] Liabilities [Abstract] Interest Rate Swap Agreement 7.75% - Fair Value Hedge Interest Rate Swap Agreement1 Fair Value Liability Disclosure Fair value as of the balance sheet date of a derivative liability designated as interest rate fair value hedging instruments. Interest Rate Swap Agreement 6.875% - Fair Value Hedge Interest Rate Swap Agreement2 Fair Value Liability Disclosure The fair value as of the balance sheet date of a second derivative liability designated as interest rate fair value hedging instruments. Derivatives Derivative Financial Instruments, Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Total Liabilities Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Summary of Quarterly Results [Abstract] Summary of Quarterly Results [Abstract] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] schedule of finite and infinite lived intangible assets [Table Text Block] schedule of finite and infinite lived intangible assets [Table Text Block] schedule of finite and infinite lived intangible assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Changes in Goodwill Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense Stock or Unit Option Plan Expense Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized expense relating to vesting of stock options expense relating to vesting of stock options expense relating to vesting of stock options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Total Intrinsic Value Percent of salary maximum contribution employee stock purchase plan Maximum contribution to employee stock purchase plan expense relating to vesting of stock awards expense relating to vesting of stock awards expense relating to vesting of stock awards Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Corrections [Axis] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Adjustments for Error Correction [Domain] Restatement Adjustment [Member] Restatement Adjustment [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Dividends, Common Stock, Cash Stocks Acquired Issued For Benefit Plans Stocks Acquired Issued For Benefit Plans Stock Value of shares Acquired and Issued During Period in relation to the company benefit plans. Stock Issued During Period Value Stock Options Exercised Net Of Amortization Forfeitures Stock Issued During Period Value Stock Options Exercised Net Of Amortization Forfeitures Value stock issued during the period as a result of the exercise of stock options net of amortization/forfeitures. Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method restricted stock dividends declared restricted stock dividends declared restricted stock dividends declared Translation adjustment recorde as loss on sales of CRO Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Net of Forfeitures Stockholders' Equity, Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Subtotal of Stockholders Equity including portion attributable to non-controlling interest prior to Comprehensive Income Subtotal of Stockholders Equity including portion attributable to non-controlling interest prior to Comprehensive Income Subtotal of Stockholders Equity including portion attributable to non-controlling interest prior to Comprehensive Income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Amortization, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Prior Service Cost (Credit) Recognized in Net Periodic Benefit Cost, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Non-Pension Postretirement Plan Valuation, Net of Tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest CLONE Debt [Abstract] Debt [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Fair Value by Swap Agreement [Axis] Fair Value by Swap Agreement [Axis] Fair Value by Swap Agreement [Axis] Interest Rate Swap Agreement by Debt [Domain] Interest Rate Swap Agreement by Debt [Domain] Interest Rate Swap Agreement by Debt [Domain] 7.75% interest rate swap agreement - fair value hedge [Member] 7.75% interest rate swap agreement - fair value hedge [Member] 7.75% interest rate swap agreement - fair value hedge [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes 6125 due 2013 [Member] 6.875% Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2015 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes6875 Due2015 Member Senior notes in a subordinated position and due in Year 2015. Senior Credit Agreement [Member] Senior Credit Agreement [Member] Combined term loan and credit facility agreement Revolving Credit Facility 2010 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility 2010 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility 2011 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility 2011 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Senior Term Loan [Member] Senior Term Loan [Member] Term loan credit facility. 2005 Credit Facility [Member] 2005 Credit Facility [Member] 2005 Credit Facility [Member] 7.75% Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2020 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes775 Due2020 Member Senior notes in a subordinated position and due in Year 2020. Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Derivative, Fair Value, Net Derivative, Fair Value, Net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt, Current Debt, Current Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Face Value Of Term Loan And Senior Credit Facility Face Value Of Term Loan And Senior Credit Facility The stated principal amount of the Term loan and Senior Credit Facility at time of issuance, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Face Value Of Term Loan Face Value Of Term Loan The stated principal amount of the Term loan at time of issuance, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Option To Increase Commitments Under Credit Agreement Maximum Option To Increase Commitments Under Credit Agreement Maximum The option to increase the commitments under the credit agreement, up to the stated maximum aggregate amount. Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Deferred Finance Costs, Net Deferred Finance Costs, Net Interest Paid, Net Interest Paid, Net Interest Paid Interest Paid Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Income Tax Reconciliation, Income Tax Expense (Benefit), at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Income Tax Reconciliation, Income Tax Expense (Benefit), at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate income tax reconciliation, state, local and foreign income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit income tax reconciliation, state, local and foreign income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit income tax reconciliation, state, local and foreign income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, state, local and foreign income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, state, local and foreign income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit Effective Income Tax Reconciliation, state, local and foreign income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit Income tax reconciliation, reduction for tax positions settled, net of federal income tax benefit Income tax reconciliation, reduction for tax positions settled, net of federal income tax benefit Income tax reconciliation, reduction for tax positions settled, net of federal income tax benefit Effective income tax rate reconciliation, reduction for tax positions settled, net of federal income tax benefit Effective income tax rate reconciliation, reduction for tax positions settled, net of federal income tax benefit Effective income tax rate reconciliation, reduction for tax positions settled, net of federal income tax benefit Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Settlements Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Settlements Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Settlements Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Income Tax Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations deferred federal tax asset, net deferred federal tax asset, net deferred federal tax asset, net deferred state tax asset, net deferred state tax asset, net deferred state tax asset, net deferred foreign tax asset, net deferred foreign tax asset, net deferred foreign tax asset, net Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised Tax Benefit from Stock Options Exercised Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Taxes Paid Income Taxes Paid Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Potential Federal and State unrecognized tax benefit reversal within one year Potential Federal and State unrecognized tax benefit reversal within one year Potential Federal and State unrecognized tax benefit reversal within one year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued Cash paid for interest, net of federal tax benefit and penalties accrued Cash paid for interest, net of federal tax benefit and penalties accrued Cash paid for interest, net of federal tax benefit and penalties accrued deferred tax benefit, ferderal, state and foreign deferred tax benefit, ferderal, state and foreign deferred tax benefit, ferderal, state and foreign Leasing Arrangements [Abstract] Leasing Arrangements [Abstract] Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] Leases of Lessee Disclosure [Text Block] 4.00% Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures: [Abstract] 4.00% Junior Subordinated Convertible Debentures: [Abstract] Maximum aggregate liquidation amount offered Maximum aggregate liquidation amount offered Maximum aggregate liquidation amount offered Aggregate Amount of New Trust Piers Aggregate Amount of New Trust Piers Aggregate Amount of New Trust Piers Remaining Value of New Trust Piers Remaining Value of New Trust Piers Remaining Value of New Trust Piers Remaining Liquidation Amount of Old Trust Piers Remaining Liquidation Amount of Old Trust Piers Remaining Liquidation Amount of Old Trust Piers Percent threshold for average closing share price to enable option of conversion Percent threshold for average closing share price to enable option of conversion Percent threshold for average closing share price to enable option of conversion Percent threshold for average closing share price to enable option of conversion after maturity Percent threshold for average closing share price to enable option of conversion after maturity Percent threshold for average closing share price to enable option of conversion after maturity Percent of share price cash distribution is based on % of share price cash distribution is based on % of share price cash distribution is based on Reconciliation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block] Summary of Valuation Allowance [Table Text Block] 6.75% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] 6.75% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Early debt extinguishment fees Early debt extinguishment fees Fees associated with the early extinguishment of debt Cash Tax Benefit of Convertible Debt Cash Tax Benefit of Convertible Debt Cash Tax Benefit of Convertible Debt Cumulative Cash Tax Benefit of Convertible Debt Cumulative Cash Tax Benefit of Convertible Debt Cumulative Cash Tax Benefit of Convertible Debt Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Debt Instrument, Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component Debt Instrument Convertible Principal Amount Debt Instrument Convertible Principal Amount The stated principal amount of all convertible debt instruments, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Debt Instrument Convertible Carrying Amount Net Debt Instrument Convertible Carrying Amount Net Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all convertible debt, after deducting unamortized discount or premiums, if any. Debt Instrument, Convertible, Remaining Discount Amortization Period Debt Instrument, Convertible, Remaining Discount Amortization Period Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2015 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2015 [Member] A long-term senior subordinated note, maturing on 2015. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Subordinated note holders places a lender in a lien position behind debt having a higher priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2020 [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes, Due 2020 [Member] A long-term senior subordinated note, maturing on 2020. Senior note holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Subordinated note holders places a lender in a lien position behind debt having a higher priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets Debt instrument maturity date Date of optional repurchase right, convertible senior debentures Date of Optional Repurchase Right, Convertible Senior Debentures Date when the holder of a convertible senior debt can repurchase the debt. Convertible debt can be exchanged for a specified amount of another security, typically the entity's common stock, at the option of the issuer or the holder. Senior debt holders are paid off in full before any payments are made to junior note holders. Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Settlements by agreement [Axis] Settlements by agreement [Axis] Settlements by agreement [Axis] Settlement by agreement [Domain] Settlements by agreement [Domain] settlements by agreement [Domain] Michigan settlement agreement [Member] Michigan settlement agreement [Member] Michigan settlement agreement [Member] Massachusetts settlement agreement [Member] Massachusetts settlement agreement [Member] Massachusetts settlement agreement [Member] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, General [Axis] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, General [Axis] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, Name [Domain] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense, Name [Domain] Repack Matters SGA [Member] Repack Matters SGA [Member] Costs related to repack S, G and A matters. Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Civil Settlement Agreement [Member] Civil Settlement Agreement [Member] Alleged violations of federal and state laws concerning relationships with certain manufacturers and distributors of pharmaceuticals products Putative Class Action Lawsuits [Member] Putative Class Action Lawsuits [Member] Putative Class Action Lawsuits entitled Indiana State Dist Council of Laborers and HOD Carriers Pension and Welfare Fund v. Omnicare Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Total recorded provisions for Michigan, Massachusetts and a separate unrelated matter Total recorded provisions for Michigan, Massachusetts and a separate unrelated matter Total recorded provisions for Michigan, Massachusetts and a separate unrelated matter Litigation And Other Professional Fees Settlement date Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Date Payments for Legal Settlements Payments for Legal Settlements Settlement agreement consideration Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Consideration Settlement agreement terms Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Terms Settlement Counterparty's Loss Contingency, Settlement Agreement, Counterparty's Name Lawsuit filing date Loss Contingency, Lawsuit Filing Date Lawsuit filing date for second substantially similar suit Loss Contingency Second Lawsuit Filing Date States the date of a second substantially similar complaint was formally filed in a court of law, in arbitration or mediation Loss Contingency, Allegations Loss Contingency, Allegations Opinion of Counsel Loss Contingency, Opinion of Counsel Loss contingency charges Loss Contingency, Loss in Period Increased Costs as a result of Repack Matters Increased Costs as a result of Repack Matters Increased Costs as a result of Repack Matters Accounts Receivable Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table Text Block] Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value Fixed-rate debt facilities Schedule Of Fixed-rate Debt [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of information pertaining to short-term and long-debt fixed-rate instruments or arrangements, including but not limited to identification of terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. Accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Other Miscellaneous Charges Schedule of Other Nonoperating Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Sales as a Percent by Payor [Table Text Block] Sales as a Percent by Payor [Table Text Block] Sales as a Percent by Payor [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating Cost and Expense, by Component [Table Text Block] Fair Value by Balance Sheet Grouping Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] 6.875 interest rate swap agreement [Member] 6.875 interest rate swap agreement [Member] 6.875 interest rate swap agreement [Member] Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, by Exercise Price Range [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Schedule of Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Table] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Receivable Type [Axis] Receivable Type [Domain] Receivable Type [Domain] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Trade Accounts Receivable [Member] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Legal Entity of Counterparty, Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Legal Entity of Counterparty, Type [Axis] Legal Entity Type Of Counterparty [Domain] Legal Entity Type of Counterparty [Domain] Medicare Medicaid and Third Party Payors [Member] Medicare Medicaid and Third Party Payors [Member] Represents trade account receivable from these government health care governing authorities. Facility Payors [Member] Facility Payors [Member] Represents trade accounts receivable form this group. Private Payors [Member] Private Payors [Member] Represents trade accounts receivable from this group. Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items] Incremental Charge for Allowance for Doubtful Accounts relating to Company Wide Reorganization Program Incremental Charge for Allowance for Doubtful Accounts relating to Company Wide Reorganization Program Incremental Charge for Allowance for Doubtful Accounts relating to Company Wide Reorganization Program Accounts Receivable Aging [Abstract] Receivables [Abstract] Current and 0 - 180 Days Past Due Trade Receivables0 To180 Days Past Due Trade account receivable that are either current or 0 to 180 days past due. 181 Days and Over Past Due Trade Receivables Equal To Greater Than181 Days Past Due Trade account receivable that are equal to or greater than 181 days past due. Total Gross Accounts Receivables Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense [Table] Component of Other Operating Cost and Expense [Table] Acquisition And Other Related Costs [Member] Acquisition And Other Related Costs [Member] Costs related to acquisitions. Stock Option Expense [Member] Stock Option Expense [Member] Expenses related to stock options. Asset Impairment Charges [Member] Asset Impairment Charges [Member] Asset Impairment Charges [Member] Separation, benefit plan termination and related costs [Member] Separation, benefit plan termination and related costs [Member] Separation, benefit plan termination and related costs [Member] Loss on Plane Lease [Member] Loss on Plane Lease [Member] Loss on Plane Lease [Member] Debt redemption loss and costs [Member] Debt redemption loss and costs [Member] Debt redemption loss and costs [Member] Subtotal Other Miscellaneous Charges [Member] Subtotal Other Miscellaneous Charges [Member] Represents subtotal of expenses. Repack Matters COS [Member] Repack Matters COS [Member] Represents repack COS matters. Component of Operating Other Cost and Expense [Line Items] Component of Operating Other Cost and Expense [Line Items] Other Cost and Expense, Operating Other Miscellaneous charges net of Repack matters COS Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] Compensation and Employee Benefit Plans [Text Block] 7.75% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] 7.75% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Axis] Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Axis] Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Axis] Swap agreements [Domain] Swap agreements [Domain] Swap agreements [Domain] Initial 7.75% Swap Agreement [Member] Initial 7.75% Swap Agreement [Member] Initial 7.75% Swap Agreement [Member] Additional 7.75% swap agreement [Member] Additional 7.75% swap agreement [Member] Additional 7.75% swap agreement [Member] Debt Instrument, Initial Face Value Debt Instrument, Initial Face Value Debt Instrument, Initial Face Value Offering Of Additional Senior Subordinated Notes Aggregate Principal Amount Offering Of Additional Senior Subordinated Notes Aggregate Principal Amount The stated principal amount of the additional senior subordinated notes, at time of issuance, which may vary from the carrying amount because of unamortized premium or discount. Derivative, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Derivative, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Derivative, Variable Interest Rate Derivative, Variable Interest Rate Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of Debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Convertible debt and related equity Schedule of Convertible Debt [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of convertible long-debt instruments or arrangements. Junior Subordinated Debt [Member] Junior Subordinated Debt [Member] Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Cash Cash Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value Money Market Funds, at Carrying Value US Government Securities, at Carrying Value US Government Securities, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Properties and Equipment [Abstract] Properties and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] schedule of property and equipment [Table Text Block] schedule of property and equipment [Table Text Block] schedule of property and equipment [Table Text Block] Separation, Benefit Plan Termination and Related Costs [Abstract] Separation, Benefit Plan Termination and Related Costs [Abstract] Separation Benefit Plan Termination And Related Costs [Text Block] Separation Benefit Plan Termination And Related Costs [Text Block] The disclosure provides detail for the additional termination and settlement related expenses for costs related to the retirement of certain executives. And, detail for the charge against earnings for termination of the benefit portion of the Company's excess benefit plan. Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of year Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Additions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Settlement reductions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decreases Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Reductions for tax positions settled through the expirations of the statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reductions Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Separation Agreements by Position [Axis] Separation Agreements by Position [Axis] Separation Agreements by Position [Axis] Omnicare Executive Position [Domain] Omnicare Executive Position [Domain] Omnicare Executive Position [Domain] Former President & CEO [Member] Former President & CEO [Member] Former President & CEO [Member] Former Senior Vice President and Secretary [Member] Former Senior Vice President and Secretary [Member] Former Senior Vice President and Secretary [Member] Former Omnicare Executive [Member] Former Omnicare Executive [Member] Former Omnicare Executive [Member] omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination severance costs omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination severance costs omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination severance costs omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination restricted stock awards costs omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination restricted stock awards costs omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination restricted stock awards costs omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination stock options cost omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination stock options cost omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination stock options cost omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination interest expense omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination interest expense omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination interest expense Omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination accrued vacation cost Omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination accrued vacation cost Omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination accrued vacation cost omnicare execuitve separation, benefit plan termination company's share of employment taxes omnicare execuitve separation, benefit plan termination company's share of employment taxes omnicare execuitve separation, benefit plan termination company's share of employment taxes Omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination total separation costs Omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination total separation costs Omnicare executive separation, benefit plan termination total separation costs Aggregate Cash Severance Aggregate Cash Severance Aggregate Cash Severance stock options vested as a result of separation stock options vested as a result of separation stock options vested as a result of separation Restricted Common Stock (in shares) vested as a result of separation Restricted Common Stock (in shares) vested as a result of separation Restricted Common Stock (in shares) vested as a result of separation Non Cash charge as a result of shares and options vested due to separation Non Cash charge as a result of shares and options vested due to separation Non Cash charge as a result of shares and options vested due to separation Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Income Statement by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] DME Disposal Group [Member] DME Disposal Group [Member] DME Disposal Group [Member] CRO - Contract Research Services Organization [Member] CRO - Contract Research Services Organization [Member] Information pertaining to Contract Research Services Organization (CRO Services) discontinued operations. Tidewater Group Purchasing Organization [Member] Tidewater Group Purchasing Organization [Member] Tidewater Group Purchasing Organization disposal group Disposal Group - Certain Home Healthcare and Related Ancillary Businesses [Member] Non-Core Disposal Group - Combined Disposal Group and Tidewater Group Purchasing Organization [Member] Non-Core Disposal Group is collectively the Disposal Group and Tidewater Group Purchasing Organization Income Statement by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Net sales Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Loss from operations, pretax Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Income tax benefit Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Tax Benefit Amount of income tax benefit attributable to the disposal group, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period. Loss from operations, after tax Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss), After tax Amount of operating income or loss attributable to the disposal group after tax, including a component of the entity (discontinued operation), during the reporting period. Impairment loss Discontinued Operation, Provision for Loss (Gain) on Disposal, before Income Tax Income tax benefit of impairment loss Discontinued Operation, Tax (Expense) Benefit from Provision for (Gain) Loss on Disposal Impairment loss, aftertax Discontinued Operation, Provision for Loss (Gain) on Disposal, Net of Tax Loss from discontinued operations Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Accounts receivable, less allowances of $358,713 (2010-$401,027) Deferred income tax benefits Properties and equipment, at cost less accumulated depreciation of $299,900 (2010-$284,533) Identifiable intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of $246,200 (2010-$219,107) Total noncurrent assets Assets, Noncurrent Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued employee compensation Employee-related Liabilities, Current Deferred revenue Deferred Revenue, Current Current debt Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Current liabilities of discontinued operations Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt, notes and convertible debentures Total noncurrent liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (Note 8) Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Preferred stock, no par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $1 par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, 131,756,500 shares issued (2010-129,634,300 shares issued) Common Stock, Value, Issued Paid in capital (Note 5) Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury stock, at cost-18,132,600 shares (2010-13,011,700 shares ) Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive income Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross Profit Provision for Doubtful Accounts Investment Income, Interest and Dividend Interest Expense Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Dividends per common share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Current Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Schedule of Business Acquisitions by Acquisition Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Significant Acquisitions and Disposals [Line Items] Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Initial tender offer for Pharmerica Initial tender offer for Pharmerica Initial tender offer for Pharmerica Schedule of Impaired Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Impaired Intangible Assets [Table] Impaired Intangible Assets by Description [Axis] Impaired Intangible Assets by Description [Axis] Impaired Intangible Asset, Name [Domain] Impaired Intangible Asset, Name [Domain] trademark and trade names [Member] trademark and trade names [Member] trademark and trade names Impaired Intangible Assets [Line Items] Impaired Intangible Assets [Line Items] Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Impairment of Intangible Assets, Indefinite-lived (Excluding Goodwill) Employee Benefit Plans Postemployment Benefits [Abstract] Other current liabilities - Notes payable to former benefit plan participants Other Notes Payable, Current Payments on notes payable to two former executives Payments on notes payable to two former executives Payments on notes payable to former executives Payment to former participant in the excess benefit plan Payment to former participant in the excess benefit plan Payments to former participants in the excess benefit plan Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Stock-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments Unrealized (loss) gain on fair value of investments Pension and postemployment benefits Common Stock Repurchase Program: [Abstract] Payments for Repurchase of Equity [Abstract] Stock Repurchase Program, Period in Force (in years) Stock Repurchase Program, Period in Force Authorized Amount of Repurchase of Outstanding Common Stock Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Shares Repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Aggregate Cost of Shares repurchased Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Payment For Common Stock Repurchased Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs Shipping, Handling and Transportation Costs property and casualty accrual for self-insured retentions and deductibles property and casualty accrual for self-insured retentions and deductibles property and casualty accrual for self-insured retentions and deductibles Loss Contingency Accrual, Insurance-related Assessment, Discount Rate Loss Contingency Accrual, Insurance-related Assessment, Discount Rate Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Financial Information Related to the Discontinued Operations Schedule of Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures [Table Text Block] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Industry of Counterparty, Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Industry of Counterparty, Type [Axis] Industry of Counterparty [Domain] Industry of Counterparty [Domain] Legal Entity Type of Counterparty [Domain] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Product and Service, Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Product and Service, Type [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Billing Status, Type [Axis] Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable by Billing Status, Type [Axis] Receivables Billing Status [Domain] Receivables Billing Status [Domain] Trade Receivables0 To180 Days Past Due Trade Receivables Equal To Greater Than181 Days Past Due Accounts Receivable, Gross, Current Schedule of Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustment Restatement [Table] Schedule of Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustment Restatement [Table] Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items] Error Corrections and Prior Period Adjustments Restatement [Line Items] Cumulative Impact to Income Statements Relating to Accounting Adjustments Cumulative Impact to Income Statements Relating to Accounting Adjustments Cumulative Impact to Income Statements Relating to Accounting Adjustments Total assets Total current liabilities Deferred income tax liabilities - non current Total noncurrent liabilities Total liabilities Total liabilities and stockholders' equity 6.875% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] 6.875% Senior Subordinated Notes [Abstract] Total debt redemption costs Total debt redemption costs total debt redemption costs Redemption Premium Redemption Premium Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Current Liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Net Unamortized Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax Defined Benefit Plan, Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Gain (Loss), before Tax Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan by Plan Asset Categories [Axis] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Plan Asset Categories [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets by Measurement [Axis] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Plan Asset Measurement [Domain] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Land Land Buildings and Improvements, Gross Buildings and Improvements, Gross computer equipment and software computer equipment and software Capitalized gross amount of computer equipment and software as of the balance sheet date Machinery and Equipment, Gross Machinery and Equipment, Gross furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements Gross carrying value of long-lived, depreciable furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements as of the balance sheet date. Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Separation Costs [Table Text Block] Summary of Separation Costs [Table Text Block] Summary of Separation Costs [Table Text Block] Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block] Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] technology assets and related non-compete agreements [Member] technology assets and related non-compete agreements [Member] technology assets and related non-compete agreements [Member] Intangible Asset by Major Class [Axis] Intangible Asset by Major Class [Axis] Intangible Asset by Major Class [Axis] intangible asset by major asset class [Domain] intangible asset by major asset class [Domain] intangible asset by major asset class [Domain] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Noncompete Agreements [Member] Noncompete Agreements [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Beginning balance, Goodwill Goodwill acquired during period Goodwill, Acquired During Period Other changes to Goodwill Goodwill, Other Changes Ending balance, Goodwill Future Amortization Expense, Year One Future Amortization Expense, Year One Intangible Assets Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Gross carrying value of all other intangible assets (Excluding Goodwill) finite lived intangible asset accumulated amortization and impairment losses finite lived intangible asset accumulated amortization and impairment losses finite lived intangible asset accumulated amortization and impairment losses Accumulated amortization on identifiable intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Identifiable intangible assets, net finite lived intangible asset estimated useful life range, minimum finite lived intangible asset estimated useful life range, minimum intangible asset estimated useful life finite lived intangible asset useful life range, maximum finite lived intangible asset useful life range, maximum finite lived intangible asset useful life range, maximum Future Amortization Expense, Year Two Future Amortization Expense, Year Two Future Amortization Expense, Year Three Future Amortization Expense, Year Three Future Amortization Expense, Year Four Future Amortization Expense, Year Four Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Future Amortization Expense, Year Five Intangible amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Value cumulative common stock repurchased through repurchase program cumulative common stock repurchased through repurchase program cumulative common stock repurchased through repurchase program cumulative value of shares repurchased through stock repurchase program cumulative value of shares repurchased through stock repurchase program cumulative value of shares repurchased through stock repurchase program Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Allowances on accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accumulated depreciation on properties and equipment Accumulated amortization on identifiable intangible assets Stockholder's equity: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, no par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, No Par Value Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock, shares (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Entity [Text Block] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Entities [Table] Entity Information [Line Items] Entity Information [Line Items] Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Stockholders' Equity Parenthetical [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Parenthetical [Abstract] Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid