Both companies develop automated insulin delivery systems utilizing patch pump technology. Insulet offers the market-leading Omnipod platform, while Korea-based EOFlow develops the EOPatch — similarly, a tubeless, wearable and fully disposable insulin delivery device.
EOFlow was at one point set to be acquired by Medtronic for $738 million last year. However, Medtronic called the deal off in December 2023, citing “multiple breaches” to their acquisition agreement.
A jury in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts ruled in favor of Insulet on Dec. 3, 2024, after a four-week trial. The jury found that EOFlow and several other defendants misappropriated Insulet’s trade secrets, according to a news release. Insulet was awarded $170 million in compensatory damages from EOFlow.
Acton, Massachusetts-based Insulet also received an additional $282 million in exemplary damages from EOFlow. Those damages, covering “willful and malicious misappropriation,” bring the total damages award to $452 million. Insulet said it has no certainty over EOFlow’s ability to satisfy the damages.
“We are extremely pleased with the jury’s verdict, which validates our commitment to protecting our technology and defending our intellectual property against misappropriation and infringement,” said Jim Hollingshead, Insulet president and CEO. “We will not only enforce our patents, but also zealously protect our valuable trade secrets, in which we’ve invested heavily to improve the lives of people with diabetes.”
The IP battle between companies isn’t limited to the U.S., either. They have an ongoing battle in Europe, as Insulet previously filed a patent suit against EOFlow’s German distribution partner, leading to the suspension of sales in March 2023.
