Bacteriostatic Water

The Essential Reconstitution Solution

Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP is a sterile, non-pyrogenic preparation of purified water containing 0.9% (9 mg/mL) benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative. This multi-dose solution is the gold standard for reconstituting lyophilized peptides, enabling safe, repeated withdrawals while maintaining sterility for up to 28 days after initial use.

The benzyl alcohol preservative inhibits bacterial growth without killing existing microorganisms, providing extended protection that sterile water alone cannot offer—making it indispensable for research protocols requiring multiple doses from a single reconstituted vial.

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Why Bacteriostatic Water?

The choice of reconstitution solution directly impacts peptide stability and experimental integrity:

Solution Type	Preservative	Multi-Dose Use	Shelf Life (Opened)
Bacteriostatic Water	0.9% Benzyl Alcohol	Yes	Up to 28 days
Sterile Water	None	No	24-48 hours
Bacteriostatic Saline	0.9% BA + NaCl	Yes	Up to 28 days
Normal Saline	0.9% NaCl only	No	24-48 hours

Note: Bacteriostatic saline is not recommended for peptides in acetate salt form, as sodium chloride may cause precipitation.

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Key Features

• Sterile & Non-Pyrogenic — Meets USP standards
• 0.9% Benzyl Alcohol — Optimal concentration for bacterial inhibition without peptide interference
• Multi-Dose Capability — Repeated withdrawals from a single vial for up to 28 days
• pH Balanced — Typical pH of 5.7 (range 4.5–7.0) compatible with most peptides
• Peptide-Safe — Does not interfere with peptide structure or biological activity
• Naturally Derived Preservative — Benzyl alcohol occurs naturally in fruits and tea

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Proper Use Guidelines

Storage After Reconstitution:

• Store reconstituted peptides at 2–8°C (refrigerated)
• Protect from light
• Use within 28 days of first puncture
• Never freeze reconstituted solutions

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Technical Specifications

• Composition: Water for Injection (99.1%), Benzyl Alcohol (0.9%)
• Chemical Designation: H₂O with C₆H₅CH₂OH preservative
• pH Range: 4.5–7.0 (typically 5.7)
• Sterility: 0.22 µm filtered, aseptically filled
• Appearance: Clear, colorless solution
• Container: Multi-dose vial (various sizes available)

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Storage & Handling

• Unopened: Store at room temperature (15–30°C / 59–86°F)
• After First Use: May remain at room temperature or refrigerate
• Protect from: Extreme temperatures, direct sunlight
• In-Use Stability: Up to 28 days with proper aseptic technique
• Do Not: Freeze or use if seal is compromised

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Important Considerations

• Benzyl alcohol may be incompatible with certain sensitive cell culture applications
• Not intended for use in neonates due to benzyl alcohol content
• Must be made approximately isotonic prior to intravenous use
• Always verify compatibility with specific peptide manufacturer guidelines