Respironics® Launches BiPAP® M Series Sleep Systems

Murrysville, PA - September 18, 2005

Respironics, Inc. announces the release of the BiPAP® M Series with Bi-Flex®  product line which includes the state-of-the-art BiPAP Auto M Series and the BiPAP Plus M Series sleep therapy devices.  Developed as an alternative for patients who have difficulty complying with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices, BiPAP devices continue to be reliable, comfortable choices for adults who have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

The BiPAP Auto M Series combines auto adjusting bi-level pressure delivery with the breath-by-breath pressure relief of Bi-Flex, all in the small, sleek, easy-to-use M Series design. A proactive, multi-level algorithm analyzes several parameters to monitor and respond to a patient's breathing. It determines how much of a response is necessary to eliminate events and position the patient with a more appropriate pressure, as well as compensate for elevated leak levels and variable breathing.

Bi-Flex technology "softens" the airflow in inhalation and exhalation to provide increased pressure relief, making breathing more comfortable for the patient.  Digital Auto-Trak™ Sensitivity works with Bi-Flex and the auto algorithm to track each breath so that the device can cycle between inspiratory and expiratory pressure based on the patient's breathing. The result is more natural and comfortable therapy.

The BiPAP Auto M Series also features our new "smart ramp" technology that enables patients to benefit from the added comfort of ramp without risk of impacting therapy.  The smart ramp technology will detect and treat events while ramp is activated. 

Says Brian Bunofsky, Global Product Manager, Bi-level Therapy , "The BiPAP Auto M Series is the ideal tool for treating non-compliant CPAP users. We're especially proud to release this unique product as it completes the M Series line, and gives providers a full range of therapy devices for a full range of patients."

When combined with Encore® Pro SmartCard® , BiPAP Auto M Series can record events like snores, apneas, hypopneas and leak to provide insight into patients' therapy. An optional integrated heated humidifier features an easy-turn dial to get the right setting and does not need to be reset if therapy is temporarily suspended. Plus, the hidden water chamber is easy to use and fill, and delivers continuous humidification throughout the night. 

The BiPAP Plus M Series provides bi-level therapy with the comfort of Bi-Flex plus basic compliance data for easy phone-in reporting by patients.

Users will find the products easy to operate, with three primary control buttons and additional options for the proactive patient. Its small size allows for easy travel, even as carry-on luggage when flying.

Respironics is a leading developer, manufacturer and distributor of innovative products and programs that serve the global sleep and respiratory markets. Focusing on emerging market needs, the Company is committed to providing valued solutions to help improve outcomes for patients, clinicians and health care providers. Respironics markets its products in 131 countries and employs over 4,700 associates worldwide. Further information can be found on the Company's Web site: www.respironics.com

This document contains forward-looking statements, including statements relating to, among other things, developments in the healthcare industry; the success of the Company's marketing, sales, and promotion programs; future sales and acceptance of the Company's products and programs; the timing and success of new product introductions; new product development; anticipated cost savings; FDA and other regulatory requirements and enforcement actions; future results from acquisitions; acquisition integration; growth rates in foreign markets; regulations and other factors affecting operations and sales outside the United States (including potential future effects of the change in sovereignty of Hong Kong); foreign currency fluctuations; customer consolidation and concentration; increasing price competition and other competitive factors in the sale of products; interest rate fluctuations; expiration of intellectual property rights; intellectual property and related litigation; other litigation; future levels of earnings and revenues; and third party reimbursement, all of which are subject to change. Actual results may differ materially from those described in any forward-looking statements. Additional information on potential factors that could affect the Company's financial results are included in the reports filed with the SEC, including the reports on Form 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K.