CPAP Maker Reaches $479 Million Settlement on Breathing Device Defects

Philips Respironics reached $479M partial settlement over defective breathing machines that emitted foam and gases into users' airways
Settlement covers monetary reimbursements to users and vendors; other injury claims not addressed
5M Philips machines including CPAPs and ventilators recalled starting in 2021 due to potential health hazards from flaking foam
105K+ injuries and 385 deaths possibly linked to foam breakdown in Philips machines reported to FDA
Settlement does not admit wrongdoing; Philips continues cooperating with DOJ investigation into recall process

nytimes.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/7/2023

Philips settles one category of U.S. claims over respirator recall

Dutch technology company Philips has reached a settlement to resolve "economic loss" claims in a U.S. class action lawsuit over the recall of its sleep apnea and respiratory devices, agreeing to make an initial payment of $479 million to a fund to cover claimants.

9/27/2023

Philips Respironics Recalls Millions of Breathing Machines After Toxic Foam Linked to Cancer and Organ Damage

ProPublica and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's investigation reveals that Philips Respironics, a medical device manufacturer, suppressed evidence that their breathing machines posed serious health risks to users, including potential cancer and other severe illnesses, for over a decade before issuing a recall.