Update on Philips CPAP Lawsuits
Philips Respironics, a leading manufacturer of CPAP machines, faces a wave of lawsuits alleging that their devices, subject to a 2021 recall, caused serious health issues such as cancer and lung problems due to degraded foam. To address these claims, Philips agreed to a partial settlement of $479 million on September 8, 2023.
Current Status of Lawsuits
As of February 2024, there are 760 pending cases in multidistrict litigation concerning injuries linked to recalled Philips CPAP machines. Bellwether trials, which may begin in 2024, will be presided over by Senior U.S. District Judge Joy Flowers Conti.
Timeline of Events
- January 2024: Philips announced a halt in the sale of CPAP devices in the US following a consent decree with federal authorities over safety concerns.
- September 2023: Philips settled a class-action lawsuit with a payout of at least $479 million.
- May 2023: Plaintiffs were granted an extension until August 2023 to file remand motions, with responses from defendants due by October 2023.
- February 2023: The FDA reported new injury cases related to recalled Philips CPAP devices, alongside 62 more cases added to the MDL.
- January 2023: Plaintiffs planned to start bellwether trials in 2024, while Philips set aside an additional $630 million for resolving CPAP lawsuit claims.
Settlement Details
The settlement offer from Philips aimed at resolving economic damages claims. Estimated settlement amounts for cancer injuries range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on the severity of the injuries. While a tentative agreement with the FDA was reached in January 2024, settlements for cancer-related lawsuits may take longer.
Considerations for Plaintiffs
Opting for a settlement may offer a quicker resolution compared to lengthy trials, though jury verdicts may result in higher compensation. It’s essential for plaintiffs to discuss their options thoroughly with legal counsel specializing in CPAP lawsuit cases.
