| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 15, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CORCEPT THERAPEUTICS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001088856 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 15, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-50679 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 77-0487658 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 149 Commonwealth Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Menlo Park |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 94025 |
| City Area Code | (650) |
| Local Phone Number | 327-3270 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | CORT |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
