What you need to know about the Phillips CPAP Recall

June 19, 2024
3:01 pm

What happened?

In 2021, millions of CPAP sleep apnea machines made by Phillips were recalled by the FDA for “a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, the products will cause serious adverse health consequences or death”.

In 2023, the FDA issued a Class 1 recall, the highest level of recalls, for Phillips CPAP equipment. Included in the recall are favorite models such as DreamStation, SystemOne, Dorma, and REMStar, in addition to Trilogy ventilators

What does it mean?

This resulted in a settlement that was a $1.1 billion for Phillips with $25 million going towards medical monitoring. If you have bought a CPAP machine during the time frame of 2008 and 2021, you are entitled to a $100 reward, if you were to return the device by Aug 9, 2024.

This page allows consumers to check serial numbers and register a product, if they think they may be entitled to the $100. There is also a specific page that is set up directly for the financial loss settlement, that is accepting claims.

Why should you be worried?

It’s your health! These machines sold between 2008 and 2021 under the brand Phillips Respironics were known to have a polyester-based polyurethane foam within the device that would help lessen the sound and vibration. This foam had a chance of breaking down, when used in warmer temperature climates. When the foam broke down, the person using the device could breathe in or swallow it. This became a very serious issue as there were some deaths that are suspected to be related to the foam.

Symptoms people were facing with using these machines

If you were to breathe in the VOCs caused by the breakdown of the foam, you may experience potential toxic and carcinogenic impacts, as well as potential irritation to the respiratory system, eyes, nose, and skin, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity reactions, dizziness, and headaches. This could lead to more serious health issues and permanent injury, like cancer.