| Cover | Sep. 22, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Sep. 22, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 1-16467 |
| Entity Registrant Name | RESPIRERX PHARMACEUTICALS INC. |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000849636 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 33-0303583 |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 126 Valley Road |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite C |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Glen Rock |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NJ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 07452 |
| City Area Code | (201) |
| Local Phone Number | 444-4947 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
