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

Philips Respironics knowingly used dangerous foam in its breathing machines for over a decade, despite receiving thousands of complaints. The company failed to report most issues to the FDA.
The recalled machines have been linked to cancer, organ damage, respiratory issues and other severe illnesses. Over 15 million devices were sold worldwide.
Internal tests showed the foam broke down, released toxic chemicals and posed serious health risks. But Philips continued aggressively marketing the products.
Philips finally recalled millions of machines in 2021 after over a decade of complaints. The company claims the devices are safe, but experts dispute this.
Legal action is ongoing, with patients suing Philips over injuries and illnesses. The DOJ has launched an investigation into the company's actions.

propublica.org

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9/7/2023

CPAP Maker Reaches $479 Million Settlement on Breathing Device Defects

CPAP manufacturer Philips Respironics has reached a $479 million settlement to compensate users of its breathing machines and vendors impacted by the devices' defects, which included blowing bits of foam into consumers' mouths and lungs.

10/6/2023

Philips Shares Drop as FDA Faults Company's Handling of Sleep Apnea Device Recall

Shares of Dutch health tech company Philips plummeted after the U.S. drug regulator criticized its handling of a major product recall, stating that its testing and analysis were inadequate to evaluate the risks posed by the recalled devices.

10/6/2023

Senator Demands DOJ Action Against Philips for Hiding Risks of Faulty CPAP Machines

A powerful U.S. senator is urging federal prosecutors to take action against Philips Respironics after it was revealed that the company withheld thousands of warnings about faulty breathing machines.

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Posted 9/27/2023, 10:00:00 AM

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

Philips Respironics knowingly used dangerous foam in its breathing machines for over a decade, despite receiving thousands of complaints. The company failed to report most issues to the FDA.
The recalled machines have been linked to cancer, organ damage, respiratory issues and other severe illnesses. Over 15 million devices were sold worldwide.
Internal tests showed the foam broke down, released toxic chemicals and posed serious health risks. But Philips continued aggressively marketing the products.
Philips finally recalled millions of machines in 2021 after over a decade of complaints. The company claims the devices are safe, but experts dispute this.
Legal action is ongoing, with patients suing Philips over injuries and illnesses. The DOJ has launched an investigation into the company's actions.

propublica.org

Relevant topic timeline:

9/7/2023

CPAP Maker Reaches $479 Million Settlement on Breathing Device Defects

10/6/2023

Philips Shares Drop as FDA Faults Company's Handling of Sleep Apnea Device Recall

10/6/2023

Senator Demands DOJ Action Against Philips for Hiding Risks of Faulty CPAP Machines

A powerful U.S. senator is urging federal prosecutors to take action against Philips Respironics after it was revealed that the company withheld thousands of warnings about faulty breathing machines.