Bacteriostatic Water | Reconstitution, Injections, And Safety

This in-depth guide on Bacteriostatic water was crafted by the research team at Peptides.org – the premier source for all information about research peptides, SARMs, and more.

Bacteriostatic water is a sterile solvent that is widely used in clinical and research settings to prepare substances for injection. It contains a gentle and organic preservative that impedes contamination to lengthen its safe window of use. 

This ultimate guide will summarize the most important information on bacteriostatic water for use in research contexts, including its chemical composition, potential applications, and best handling practices. We will also explore how it compares to sterile water, another popular solvent that differs in key aspects. 

Plus, we will guide you to the very best online vendor of top-quality bacteriostatic water.

Continue reading for an expert rundown on bacteriostatic water!

What is Bacteriostatic Water?

Bacteriostatic water is composed of sterile water and 0.9% benzyl alcohol, an organic preservative that inhibits microbial growth. It is primarily used in research and medical contexts to dissolve or dilute drugs that call for aqueous suspension before hypodermic injection. The average acidity level of bacteriostatic water is pH 5.7 (4.5 to 7.0), and it is available under the generic name Bacteriostatic Water for Injections , USP [1, 2].

The bacteriostatic agent in this solvent prevents bacterial proliferation but does not kill bacteria. As such, handlers must employ aseptic techniques to prevent contamination. This entails only accessing the container with a sterile needle. When handled accordingly, it can be stored for subsequent use within 28 days after opening. Beyond 28 days, the risk of contamination grows as the bacteriostat degrades. However, sealed vials remain uncontaminated for up to several years [1, 2]

Due to its low toxicity, acidity, and minimal interaction with most medications, bacteriostatic water is often the preferred sterile solvent for medical practitioners and researchers. It efficiently dissolves most compounds without compromising their integrity and potency. Sterile water is another popular substance that is used in this capacity. However, solutions made with sterile water must be discarded after a single use [1]. 

While bacteriostatic water has a favorable safety profile, clinicians caution against its use in select populations, including pregnant women, neonates, and subjects taking certain medications. It is also unsafe for injection without a solvent and is contraindicated for intrathecal (cerebrospinal fluid) injections. Handlers are advised to consult drug labels to determine safe use and dosage [1].

Continue reading for an in-depth look at the uses of bacteriostatic water, how to handle it, and your very best source for buying bac water and other research supplies online! 

What is Bacteriostatic Water Used For?

Bacteriostatic water is used to dilute or dissolve medications intended for aqueous injection. Its preservative agent (0.9% benzyl alcohol) prevents the growth of bacteria, enabling the withdrawal of multiple doses from a single vial without contamination [1].

Bacteriostatic water must be handled with sterile needles according to the aseptic technique. This maintains the sterility of the vial for up to four weeks after the initial use. The injection of contaminated solutions raises the risk of grave infections, such as MRSA. Accordingly, bacteriostatic water is highly valued among clinicians as a sanitation measure, not to mention the extended shelf life of its solutions [1].

The pharmacodynamics of bacteriostatic water also contribute to its clinical appeal. It interacts minimally with most medications and is a highly efficient solute. Plus, it is safe in most populations when properly handled [1].  

Bacteriostatic water is used in these manners [1]: 

• As a diluent to lower the concentration of liquid substance for injection.
• As a solvent to achieve aqueous suspension of a powdered substance for injection.

Qualified researchers may purchase bacteriostatic water without a prescription for safe use beyond medical settings. It is commonly used to reconstitute experimental and therapeutic substances for injection, such as [3]: 

• Peptides in lyophilized powder form
• Research chemicals
• Hormones

Bacteriostatic water may be used in several different injection routes, depending on the solute, the health of the subject, the target rate of diffusion, and the rate of metabolization [1]:

• Subcutaneous injection 
• Intramuscular injection
• Intravenous injection
• Intradermal injection

Handlers should closely adhere to manufacturer guidelines and precautions. Bacteriostatic water is contraindicated for use in subjects that are allergic to benzyl alcohol, newborns, and in epidural or spinal injections [4, 5]. 

Bacteriostatic water is also not to be used without a solute, as injection alone may cause a condition called hemolysis, the breakdown of red blood cells. Adverse reactions are rare and may include irritation at the site of injection, fever, or venous thrombosis. If these occur, cease use and seek medical attention [5, 6].

Bacteriostatic Water For Injection | A-Z Guide

Researchers use bacteriostatic water to reconstitute a range of therapeutic compounds. Here, we will explore the main categories.

Bacteriostatic Water for Peptides

Therapeutic peptides are a field of growing interest for clinical researchers worldwide. From the treatment of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases to cognitive and reproductive health, peptides evidence a broad range of potential benefits. Peptides are commonly available in lyophilized powder form to enable storage and must be reconstituted with sterile solvents for injection [7, 8, 9].

In most instances, bacteriostatic water is the best choice of solvent for peptide reconstitution. Its organic bacteriostat agent delivers good solubility while maintaining peptide stability and preventing contamination. However, some peptides may require stronger solvents. As such, researchers sometimes need to run tests to determine the appropriate solvent. In general, experts advise against the use of sodium chloride water as it tends to form precipitates [10].

The basic method for using bacteriostatic water for lyophilized compound reconstitution is as follows [11]:

• Gather the necessary supplies, which include a sterile syringe, a vial of lyophilized peptide powder, alcohol wipes, and bacteriostatic water.
• Clean all materials with the alcohol wipes. Don’t neglect the vial lids that you will pierce with the syringe. 
• Insert the hypodermic needle of the syringe through the top of the bac water vial and withdraw the necessary amount. This is typically about 1mL. 
• Insert the syringe into the peptide vial and slowly release the solvent so that the powder gradually and completely dissolves.
• Abstain from stirring or shaking to speed up the process, as this can damage the peptides. If available, sonication may be used. When the dissolution is complete, the contents of the vial will appear transparent.
• If the peptide powder does not completely dissolve, try a stronger solvent. 
• The exact dosage and storage indications are subject to variation. Be sure to reference product literature.

Bacteriostatic Water for HGH (Human Growth Hormone)

Hormone replacement therapy may entail the administration of exogenous human growth hormone (HGH). Parenteral delivery is one of the most common methods of delivery. The therapeutic outcomes of HGH injections include improved body composition and physical performance and treatment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children and adults [12, 13].

HGH is available on a prescription basis, in both lyophilized powder and liquid form. When preparing HGH powder for injection, bacteriostatic water is recommended as a safe and effective solvent. The long shelf life of bacteriostatic water solutions is particularly advantageous in HGH therapy due to the regular and ongoing dosage schedules [14].

The method of HGH reconstitution is identical to the process detailed above. Solutions are injected subcutaneously into fatty regions such as the thigh, abdomen, and waist. Storage guidelines may vary [14].

Bacteriostatic Water for HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is another hormone with a range of clinical applications, such as the treatment of male and female infertility. It is also used as a supplement to testosterone replacement therapy in males [15, 16]. 

HCG is administered via subcutaneous injection and is available in lyophilized powder form. Bacteriostatic water is also the optimal solvent for HCG reconstitution, allowing refrigerated solutions to be used for multiple doses [17].

The method of HCG preparation is as outlined above. Handlers are strongly advised to use aseptic handling techniques and use only as prescribed.

Bacteriostatic Water vs. Sterile Water 

Sterile water and bacteriostatic water fall into the same category of sterile solutions used for injections. Both are popular in medical and research settings. Although their features overlap in many areas, there are several important differences between the two. Here, we will compare them and discuss why they are not interchangeable in all contexts [1, 18].

What is Sterile Water?

Sterile water is simply distilled and purified aseptic water with no antimicrobial agent added. It has a pH of 5.0 to 7.0 and is available for use as a medical diluent according to US Pharmacopeia (USP) standards. Because it has no preservative content, it is sold in single-use containers. Sterile water is suitable for parenteral injections in qualified settings [18].

How are Bacteriostatic Water and Sterile Water Similar? 

Bacteriostatic water and sterile water share these features [1, 18].

• Both are sterile, non-pyrogenic solutions that are widely used in medical contexts.
• They are used similarly to dilute or dissolve compounds that require aqueous injection.
• Both are suitable for use with hormones and peptides, typically in the form of lyophilized powder.
• They are both suited to subcutaneous, intravenous, intramuscular, and intradermal injection routes of parenteral administration.
• Neither is safe for injection alone without a solute. Doing so may lead to hemolysis. 
• Neither is safe for spinal injections due to potential neurotoxic effects.
• Both are pharmaceutical grade per US Pharmacopeia (USP) standards.

How are Bacteriostatic Water and Sterile Water Different?

These are the major points of difference [1, 18]:    

• Their compositions and pH levels are not the same. Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol with a pH of 4.5-7, while sterile water is free of additives with a pH of 5.0-7.0.
• While bacteriostatic water can be used to mix multiple-dose solutions, sterile water can be contaminated after one use due to its lack of a preservative agent. Therefore, sterile water is only sold in single-dose vials. 
• Solutions reconstituted with bacteriostatic water have much longer shelf lives due to their preservative content.
• They are not interchangeable for use with all drugs according to FDA regulations. 
• Bacteriostatic water is contraindicated in individuals who are allergic to benzyl alcohol and in neonates. 
• The manufacturing process of bacteriostatic water is easier leading to its wider availability. 
• In most cases, bacteriostatic water is the more effective solvent because of its alcohol content. 

Considering these factors, it is easy to see why bacteriostatic water is the preferred solvent. It is more sanitary, longer-lasting, and better suited to use in parenteral preparations. 

Where to Buy Bacteriostatic Water Online? 

Given the importance of bacteriostatic water in many research contexts, you may be wondering where to purchase this popular lab item as well as the required ancillary supplies like sterile syringes and wipes. 

Not sure where to find all these materials?

Setting out to gather the full set may seem like a challenge, especially when navigating the current online market of subpar vendors and low manufacturing standards. Many researchers may delay their work simply to avoid the headache of assembling all the items required for safe and effective peptide or hormone handling.

The good news is that the experts at Peptides.org have scanned the market to give you our top recommendation for the online purchase of bac water and related supplies. Look no further than:

BacteriostaticWater.org

This site is a favorite among top scientists for its premium research kits that contain all required lab supplies, saving them the hassle of shopping far and wide with door-to-door delivery of the complete essentials.

The starter kit features:

• 3 vials of Bacteriostatic Water (30mL) 
• 100 Insulin Syringes (0.5 cc/mL x 29g x ½) 
• 200 Alcohol Prep Pads 
• 1 Sterile Empty Glass Vial (10mL)
• 10 Large Needles + Syringes Combo (3cc x 21g x 1) 

Enjoy even more with the premium set:

• 5 vials of Bacteriostatic Water (30mL) 
• 200 Insulin Syringes (0.5 cc/mL x 29g x ½) 
• 200 Alcohol Prep Pads 
• 2 Sterile Empty Glass Vials (10mL) 
• 20 Large Needles + Syringes Combo (3cc x 21g x 1) 

The selection also includes bulk sets of the highest-quality bacteriostatic water so that you can stock up! 

Shipping is rapid and low-cost, while the secure site is highly navigable with a range of payment methods accepted, from credit cards to crypto. Plus, the attentive staff is readily available to address all customer concerns.

Don’t let supply worries impede your research into the many therapeutic benefits of peptides and recombinant hormones. With a research kit from our go-to supplier, you will be fully equipped for success! 

Get your premium kit now!

Is Bacteriostatic Water Legal? 

Bacteriostatic water is legal for scientific investigation purposes, and suitable for purchase and handling by qualified researchers. 

What makes a qualified researcher? Bacteriostatic water handlers should have these attributes:

• Proven experience in the topic of investigation
• Familiarity with the requisite procedures, techniques, equipment, and emerging technology
• Deep knowledge of and compliance with the safety and ethics guidelines of the field
• Thorough understanding of the current peer-reviewed studies and literature that relate to the topic
• Ability to analyze data and adjust methods accordingly
• Great attention to detail and care in handling potentially toxic substances
• Applied skills and effective problem-solving

When handled by qualified personnel in research contexts, bacteriostatic water is fully legal. 

Buyers are advised to exercise further caution in purchasing bacteriostatic water from legitimate suppliers. Unfortunately, the internet is saturated with illicit retailers of ineffective and sometimes dangerous lab materials. Here are several guidelines for selecting a legit vendor:

• The marketing material should not designate the products for medical use or human consumption. 
• The retailer should not make medical guarantees regarding the use of the product.
• The product must be designated for research purposes only.
• The website should be secured with encryption technology to protect client data. 
• Staff should be readily available to respond to client queries.
• Thorough terms, conditions, and disclaimers should be provided in line with legal standards.

In short, when purchased from a legitimate source by qualified researchers, bacteriostatic water is legal and makes a great addition to investigational lab work.

Do I Need a Prescription for Bacteriostatic Water? 

Although a prescription is not required for the purchase of bacteriostatic water, it may be supplied on a prescription basis in certain cases for medical use. In this context, it may be supplied alone or with other medications.

Prescribed Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP is to be used for parenteral injection only. This includes the dilution or dissolution of substances intended for subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous injection in compliance with manufacturer and practitioner guidelines [1].

It is typically available in multi-dose vials with labeling that thoroughly details the relevant precautions, warnings, and storage measures. As discussed previously, bacteriostatic water is not considered interchangeable with Sterile Water for Injection, USP (also prescribed in some cases) unless otherwise advised by a medical professional. 

Bacteriostatic water for prescription or research uses may in most cases be purchased from pharmacies and legitimate retailers. When purchased without a prescription, it must be strictly for handling by qualified researchers and sourced from a legal supplier, as outlined above.

Whether prescribed or purchased over the counter, bacteriostatic water must be handled according to aseptic techniques and safety guidelines. Continue reading to learn the proper storage measures of bacteriostatic water so that you can safely extend the shelf life of your solutions. 

Does Bacteriostatic Water Need to Be Refrigerated?

Bacteriostatic water does not need to be refrigerated. In fact, this convenience is one of the reasons for its prized status among leading researchers and clinicians. Let’s explore the proper storage practices when handling bacteriostatic water.

Due to its bacteriostat agent (benzyl alcohol 0.9%), bacteriostatic water does not require refrigeration when accessed with sterile tools. After opening, it remains sterile for up to 28 days when correctly handled. When unopened, vials of bacteriostatic water remain viable for up to several years. Whether unopened or opened, bacteriostatic water should be stored according to the following measures [1, 2]: 

• It should be kept at 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that refrigeration is not recommended.
• To prevent degradation of the bacteriostat agent, bacteriostatic water should be stored away from direct sunlight in a darkened area such as a cabinet or closet. 
• Handlers should take care not to place heavy items on top of bacteriostatic water vials or roughly place them, as this may crack or damage them and compromise the contents. 

Bear in mind that these storage conditions are subject to change when bacteriostatic water is mixed with solutes such as peptides, hormones, or medications. Researchers must read all product indications and follow the relevant storage instructions. If contamination is suspected, discard it immediately to avoid the risk of infection.

Lastly, bacteriostatic water should never be used after the expiration date or times as indicated in product literature. When stored according to these measures, qualified handlers can optimize the benefits of bacteriostatic water in their studies. 

Bacteriostatic Water Review | Summary

Bacteriostatic water is prized by clinical researchers and practitioners for its myriad benefits as a solute or diluent of substances for aqueous injection. Due to its organic preservative content (0.9% benzyl alcohol), bacteriostatic water resists contamination to enhance the safety and longevity of injectable solutions. It is in most cases the optimal solvent for therapeutic substances such as peptides and hormones. 

In contrast to sterile water, bacteriostatic water solutions last for up to 28 days for convenient, multi-dose preparations. Unopened vials may be stored safely for several years to ensure a robust supply. Available under prescription or over-the-counter purchase by strictly qualified researchers, bacteriostatic water is a must-have item in laboratories and medical settings.  

To help you get the most out of bacteriostatic water, we have surveyed the market to identify a reputable source for not only this popular solvent, but all ancillary supplies required for safe handling.

Visit our go-to bacteriostatic water source to pick up your premium research kit featuring the best bacteriostatic water on the web. 

References

Bacteriostatic Water for Injection [Internet]. Drugs.com. 2021 [cited 2022Aug17]. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/pro/bacteriostatic-water-for-injection.html 

Food and Drug Administration [Internet]. [cited 2023Feb]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/2017/761074Orig1s000ChemR.pdf 

Ha, Emily, et al. "Delivery of peptide and protein drugs." Theory and Practice of Contemporary Pharmaceutics. CRC Press, 2021. 525-547. 

Feasby TE, Hahn AF, Gilbert JJ. Neurotoxicity of bacteriostatic water. N Engl J Med. 1983 Apr 21;308(16):966-7. doi: 10.1056/NEJM198304213081614. PMID: 6687625.

Bacteriostatic water for injection, USP warnings and precautions [Internet]. bacteriostatic water for injection, USP Warnings and Precautions | Pfizer Medical Information - US. 2022 [cited 2022Aug18]. Available from: https://www.pfizermedicalinformation.com/en-us/node/657396/pi_section/field_spl_warnings 

Rapido F. The potential adverse effects of haemolysis. Blood Transfus. 2017 May;15(3):218-221. doi: 10.2450/2017.0311-16. PMID: 28518048; PMCID: PMC5448827. 

Lau JL, Dunn MK. Therapeutic peptides: Historical perspectives, current development trends, and future directions. Bioorg Med Chem. 2018 Jun 1;26(10):2700-2707. doi: 10.1016/j.bmc.2017.06.052. Epub 2017 Jul 1. PMID: 28720325.

Izutsu, Ki. (2018). Applications of Freezing and Freeze-Drying in Pharmaceutical Formulations. In: Iwaya-Inoue, M., Sakurai, M., Uemura, M. (eds) Survival Strategies in Extreme Cold and Desiccation. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 1081. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-1244-1_20 

Affairs Oof R. Lyophilization of Parenteral (7/93) [Internet]. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA; [cited 2023Feb]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/inspection-guides/lyophilization-parenteral-793 

Kang, L., Li, X., & Lu, F. (2021). The effects of sodium chloride on proteins aggregation, conformation and gel properties of pork myofibrillar protein Running Head: Relationship aggregation, conformation and gel properties. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 58(6), 2258-2264. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-020-04736-4

Activase (alteplase) for Injection - Food and Drug Administration [Internet]. [cited 2023Feb]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/103172s5203lbl.pdf 

Crist DM, Peake GT, Egan PA, Waters DL. Body composition response to exogenous GH during training in highly conditioned adults. J Appl Physiol (1985). 1988 Aug;65(2):579-84. doi: 10.1152/jappl.1988.65.2.579. PMID: 3170408. 

Grumbach MM, Bin-Abbas BS, Kaplan SL. The growth hormone cascade: progress and long-term results of growth hormone treatment in growth hormone deficiency. Horm Res. 

Reference ID: 3597784 - accessdata.fda.gov [Internet]. [cited 2023Feb]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/019734s023lbl.pdf 

Human chorionic gonadotropin, HCG injection [Internet]. Cleveland Clinic. 2022 [cited 2022Aug18]. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18559-human-chorionic-gonadotropin-hcg-injection 

Kim ED, Crosnoe L, Bar-Chama N, Khera M, Lipshultz LI. The treatment of hypogonadism in men of reproductive age. Fertil Steril. 2013 Mar 1;99(3):718-24. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.10.052. Epub 2012 Dec 7. PMID: 23219010. 

Reference ID: 2901664 - food and drug administration [Internet]. [cited 2023Feb]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021087s057lbl.pdf 

Sterile water for injection, USP - Food and Drug Administration [Internet]. [cited 2023Feb]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/018632s051lbl.pdf 

The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.