Achieve Life Sciences, Inc. Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

Fair Value Measurements (Details 2) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2013
Cash [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	$ 3,986
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses
Estimated Fair Value	3,986
Money market securities [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	14,763
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses
Estimated Fair Value	14,763
Total cash and cash equivalents [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	18,749
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses
Estimated Fair Value	18,749
Money market securities [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	314
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses
Estimated Fair Value	314
Total restricted cash [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	314
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses
Estimated Fair Value	314
Corporate bonds and commercial paper [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	38,268
Gross Unrealized Gains	2
Gross Unrealized Losses	(27)
Estimated Fair Value	38,243
Total short-term investments [Member]
Summary of marketable securities
Amortized Cost	38,268
Gross Unrealized Gains	2
Gross Unrealized Losses	(27)
Estimated Fair Value	$ 38,243