Description

Bacteriostatic Water for Injection is a sterile, non-pyrogenic water for injection that contains one or more suitable antimicrobial preservatives, such as 0.9% benzyl alcohol. It is used as a diluent for parenteral (injectable) drugs. Its primary purpose is to inhibit the growth of bacteria that may be introduced during the repeated withdrawal of doses, thereby extending the useful life of the multi-dose vial.

Sterile Water vs. Bacteriostatic Water

It’s important to distinguish sterile water from bacteriostatic water:

• Sterile Water: Contains no preservatives. Once opened, it is for immediate, single-use. Any unused portion must be discarded.

• Bacteriostatic Water: Contains a preservative, such as 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which inhibits the growth of bacteria that may be introduced after the container is opened. This allows it to be used for multiple doses from the same vial.