$479 Million Settlement Reached in CPAP Class Action Lawsuit Against Philips Respironics

One of the nation's largest sleep apnea machine manufacturers Philips Respironics has agreed to pay at least $479 million to settle a class-action lawsuit brought by consumers who used Philips Respironics CPAP, BiPAP and ventilator devices, with an additional $15 million set aside for machine replacements, following a recall of PAP devices due to foam-related issues that allegedly caused health problems and fatalities

Philips Respironics has agreed to a settle class-action lawsuit at least $479 million compensating positive airway pressure (PAP) customers who bought Philips’ CPAP, BiPAP and ventilator devices, which were recalled two years ago due to problems caused by defective foam lining the machines. The settlement includes $15 million earmarked for customers seeking to replace their devices.

The settlement, which may vary in amount depending on how many people participate, covers only the economic losses that PAP customers suffered in purchasing the defective products, and does not include damages for people with personal injury claims. Over 100,000 complaints, including 385 reports of death related to problems associated with the recalled devices, were received by the FDA.

In June 2021, millions of sleep apnea devices manufactured by Philips and equipped with a potentially dangerous type of sound abatement foam were recalled. This foam, known as PE-PUR foam, helps to reduce the noise and vibrations the machines make when in use. However, this type of foam may break down over time, potentially releasing life-threatening carcinogenic toxins into the user’s airways.

Many patients using Philips CPAP, BiPAP and ventilator machines have filed lawsuits against the company, claiming that Philips knew of the health risks the PE-PUR foam presented, but did not warn consumers. Individuals that used a Philips PAP model or mechanical ventilator between 2009-2021 may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturer. Health problems that have been associated with these devices include:

• Airway inflammation or irritation
• Headaches and dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• And certain cancers, including:
• Bladder cancer
• Hematopoietic cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Leukemia
• Liver cancer
• Lung cancer
• Lymphatic cancer
• Multiple myeloma
• Nasal cancer
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Stomach cancer
• Throat cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Wondering if You Can File a CPAP Lawsuit? Call G&E Today for a Free Consultation.

Our experienced attorneys are investigating Philips CPAP and BiPAP lawsuit claims. Contact us for a confidential evaluation of your potential claim. It’s not too late to investigate your potential claim.