| Cover | Aug. 05, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 5, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 001-34620 |
| Entity Registrant Name | IRONWOOD PHARMACEUTICALS INC |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001446847 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-3404176 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 100 Summer Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 2300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Boston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 02110 |
| City Area Code | 617 |
| Local Phone Number | 621-7722 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Class A common stock, $0.001 par value |
| Trading Symbol | IRWD |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
