| Document and Entity Information | May 21, 2024 |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 21, 2024 |
| Entity Registrant Name | DURECT CORP |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-31615 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-3297098 |
| Entity Address Address Line 1 | 10240 Bubb Road |
| Entity Address City Or Town | Cupertino |
| Entity Address State Or Province | CA |
| Entity Address Postal Zip Code | 95014 |
| City Area Code | 408 |
| Local Phone Number | 777-1417 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001082038 |
| Common Stock [Member] | |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock $0.0001 par value per share |
| Trading Symbol | DRRX |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Rights [Member] | |
| Document And Entity Information [Line Items] | |
| Security 12b Title | Preferred Share Purchase Rights |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| No Trading Symbol Flag | true |
