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Download COA here: Bacteriostatic_Water_COA.pdf
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Bacteriostatic Water

Synonyms / Designations: Bacteriostatic Water for Injection (research use) Sterile Water with Benzyl Alcohol
CAS Number: 7732-18-5 (water) 100-51-6 (benzyl alcohol component)
Molecular Formula: H2O (with 0.9% benzyl alcohol, w/v)
Molar Mass 18.02 g/mol (water)
Composition: Sterile water for injection containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative
Product Classification Sterile aqueous diluent; bacteriostatic solvent
Purity: Manufactured to pharmacopeial specification (USP/Ph. Eur. grade components)
Appearance: Clear, colourless, sterile solution
Pack Size: 10 mL
Storage: Store in a cool dark place. Discard 30 DAYS after opening.
Solubility: Fully miscible with water and aqueous buffers

Description & Mechanism

Bacteriostatic Water is a sterile aqueous solution containing a low concentration of benzyl alcohol, formulated to inhibit microbial growth during repeated vial access. It is widely used in laboratory, pharmaceutical, and formulation research as a diluent for the reconstitution and dilution of injectable-grade compounds under controlled experimental conditions.

In biochemical and cellular research systems, Bacteriostatic Water is employed to evaluate compound solubility, stability following reconstitution, and short-term storage behaviour. The presence of benzyl alcohol provides bacteriostatic activity by disrupting microbial cell membranes, thereby reducing contamination risk during multi-use experimental workflows.

Applications in Research

• As a standard diluent for peptide and protein reconstitution
• Preparation of injectable-grade research compounds for in vitro or ex vivo studies
• Investigation of peptide and biologic stability following reconstitution
• Formulation testing and solvent compatibility studies
• Multi-use experimental workflows requiring bacteriostatic protection

Specifications Summary

Purity: Manufactured to specification
Appearance: Clear, colourless sterile solution
Solvent Type: Bacteriostatic aqueous diluent
Preservative: Benzyl alcohol 0.9% (w/v)
Solubility: Fully miscible with water and aqueous buffers
Storage: Controlled room temperature
Pack Size: 10 ml

Handling, Use & Stability

• Use aseptic technique when accessing vial contents
• Avoid contact with non-sterile surfaces
• Do not use if solution becomes cloudy or discoloured
• Seal vial promptly after use to maintain sterility
• Avoid exposure to excessive heat or prolonged light
• Do not freeze

Precautions & Notes

• Not all peptides or biologics are compatible with benzyl alcohol; compatibility should be assessed experimentally
• Buffer composition, compound sensitivity, and storage duration may influence stability
• Not suitable for neonatal or in vivo clinical use
• Intended strictly for laboratory research use

References

European Pharmacopoeia. Sterile Water and preserved preparations monographs.
https://www.edqm.eu/en/european-pharmacopoeia

Rowe R.C., Sheskey P.J., Quinn M.E. Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients. Pharmaceutical Press.
https://www.pharmpress.com/product/9780857110275/handbook-of-pharmaceutical-excipients

Trissel L.A. Handbook on Injectable Drugs. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists.
https://www.ashp.org/products-and-services/ashp-publications/handbook-on-injectable-drugs

Keywords: Bacteriostatic Water, Sterile Water, Benzyl Alcohol Solution, Research Diluent, Peptide Reconstitution, Laboratory Solvent