Product Liability

Philips Recall of Dreamstation CPAP Sleep Apnea Machine

June 30, 2021
Dreamstation auto cpap machine

Table Of Contents

Contributors

On June 14, 2021, Philips recalled millions of Bi-Level PAP, CPAP and mechanical ventilator devices after identifying potential health risks related to degradation of the machine’s sound abatement foam.  The majority of the Recalled Devices are in the first generation DreamStation product family. 

Your doctor may have prescribed you one of the Philips CPAP or Bi-Level PAP devices for home use as  treatment for sleep apnea. CPAP and Bi-Level Pap machines are used to ensure that you maintain continued breathing while asleep. 

The foam used in the Philips machines is composed of a poly-ester based polyurethane (PE-PUR) material.  The foam may degrade into particles that enter the device’s air pathway and can be ingested or inhaled by the user. The foam may also emit certain harmful chemicals as it degrades.

Possible Health Risks

The potential risks of particulate exposure include serious toxic and carcinogenic effects, including: 

  • Cancer
  • Respiratory Issues
  • Inflammation
  • Irritation
  • Headache

Patients with a history of consistent use and a diagnosis of throat, esophageal, and lung cancer may be particularly at risk.  

Affected Devices

All Recalled Devices were manufactured before April 26, 2021.  The majority of the Recalled Devices are in the first generation DreamStation product family.

To learn more, please click here: Philips Lawsuit