v2.4.0.8
Document and Entity Information (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2013
Mar. 14, 2014
Jun. 30, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]      
Document Type 10-K    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2013    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2013    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Entity Registrant Name CATALYST PHARMACEUTICAL PARTNERS, INC.    
Entity Central Index Key 0001369568    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Filer Category Smaller Reporting Company    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   54,145,633  
Entity Public Float     $ 32,240,770