| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 23, 2024 |
| Document Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Heron Therapeutics, Inc. |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000818033 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 23, 2024 |
| Entity Incorporation State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-33221 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 94-2875566 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 100 Regency Forest Drive |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Cary |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 27518 |
| City Area Code | (858) |
| Local Phone Number | 251-4400 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12b Security | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | HRTX |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Former Address [Member] | |
| Document Information [Line Items] | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 4242 Campus Point Court |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 200 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | San Diego |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 92121 |
