Cover
Mar. 31, 2022
Cover [Abstract]  
Document Type 8-K
Amendment Flag false
Document Period End Date Mar. 31, 2022
Entity File Number 000-26301
Entity Registrant Name United Therapeutics Corporation
Entity Central Index Key 0001082554
Entity Tax Identification Number 52-1984749
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE
Entity Address, Address Line One 1040 Spring Street
Entity Address, City or Town Silver Spring
Entity Address, State or Province MD
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 20910
City Area Code 301
Local Phone Number 608-9292
Written Communications false
Soliciting Material false
Pre-commencement Tender Offer false
Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer false
Title of 12(b) Security Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
Trading Symbol UTHR
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ
Entity Emerging Growth Company false