| Cover | Jul. 31, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 31, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 001-32360 |
| Entity Registrant Name | Akorn, Inc. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000003116 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 72-0717400 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | LA |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1925 W. FIELD COURT |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | SUITE 300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | LAKE FOREST |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60045 |
| City Area Code | 847 |
| Local Phone Number | 279-6100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, No Par Value |
| Trading Symbol | AKRXQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
