Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets-Goodwill (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
	Jul. 01, 2012
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 44,569
Additions	382	[1]
Other	(383)	[2]
Ending balance	44,568
Primary Care [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance	6,229
Other	(59)	[2]
Ending balance	6,170
Specialty Care And Oncology [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance	17,097
Other	(161)	[2]
Ending balance	16,936
Established Products and Emerging Markets [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance	18,746
Other	(178)	[2]
Ending balance	18,568
Animal Health and Consumer Healthcare [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Beginning balance	2,497
Additions	382	[1]
Other	15	[2]
Ending balance	$ 2,894

[1] Related to our acquisitions of Alacer and Ferrosan, see Note 2A. Acquisitions and Divestitures: Acquisitions.

[2] Primarily reflects the impact of foreign exchange.