What is Bacteriostatic Water?
Bacteriostatic Water for Injection is sterile non-pyrogenic water that contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol (9mg/mL), which is added as a bacteriostatic preservative. This preparation of sterile water and benzyl alcohol (BnOH) allows repeated withdrawals to be made from a single 30mL plastic vial. Hospira, the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of bacteriostatic and sterile water, recommends that once a vial of bacteriostatic water is open the preservatives will prolong its life for up to 28 days and that after this period of time the vial should to be discarded. Other sterile waters for injection without the bacteriostatic agent (single-dose vials) should be discarded after a single use. Visit our buy Bacteriostatic Water page to purchase online at wholesale supply prices.Bacteriostatic Water Indications
This parenteral preparation is indicated only for diluting or dissolving drugs for intravenous, intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, according to instructions of the manufacturer of the drug to be administered.
Bacteriostatic Water Warnings
Benzyl alcohol, a preservative in Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP has been associated with toxicity in neonates. Data are unavailable on the toxicity of other preservatives in this age group. Where water is required for preparing or diluting medications for use in neonates, only preservative-free Sterile Water for Injection should be used.
Intravenous administration of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection without a solute may result in hemolysis.
Bacteriostatic Water Dosage
The volume of the preparation to be used for diluting or dissolving any drug for injection is dependent on the vehicle concentration, dose and route of administration as recommended by the manufacturer.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
Bacteriostatic Water Overdose
Use only as a diluent or solvent. This parenteral preparation is unlikely to pose a threat of fluid overload except possibly in very small infants. In the event these should occur, re-evaluate the patient and institute appropriate corrective measures.
Bacteriostatic Water Drug Interactions
Some drugs for injection may be incompatible in a given vehicle, or when combined in the same vehicle or in a vehicle containing benzyl alcohol. Consult with pharmacist, if available.
Use aseptic technique for single or multiple entry and withdrawal from all containers.
When diluting or dissolving drugs, mix thoroughly and use promptly.
Do not store reconstituted solutions of drugs for injection unless otherwise directed by the manufacturer of the solute.
Do not use unless the solution is clear and seal intact.
