| Document and Entity Information | Nov. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | MANNKIND CORP |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000899460 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-50865 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 13-3607736 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 30930 Russell Ranch Road |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 300 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Westlake Village |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 91362 |
| City Area Code | (818) |
| Local Phone Number | 661-5000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | MNKD |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
