Background and Application

In research, bacteriostatic water provides a convenient medium for dissolving and reconstituting lyophilized compounds. Its preservative effect allows multiple withdrawals from the same vial, distinguishing it from sterile water for injection, which lacks preservatives and is intended for single use. The benzyl alcohol component is effective in limiting microbial growth, but concentrations are kept low (0.9%) to avoid altering compound stability under research conditions.

Chemical Characteristics

Research and Laboratory Use

1. Reconstitution of Lyophilized Compounds

– Frequently used to reconstitute lyophilized peptides and proteins for short-term storage and repeated sampling.
– Helps maintain sterility of reconstituted solutions when accessed multiple times using aseptic technique.

2. Stability and Storage

– The benzyl alcohol preservative extends usability of reconstituted compounds beyond a single withdrawal, but stability depends on the specific peptide or protein being studied.
– Research protocols often recommend refrigeration after reconstitution and limited use windows (e.g., 7–28 days depending on the compound).

3. Distinction from Sterile Water for Injection

– Sterile water lacks preservatives and is single-use, making bacteriostatic water preferable when repeated vial access is required.
– Both forms are used exclusively in research settings and are not interchangeable without consideration of experimental design.

General Specifications (Research Grade)

Composition: Sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol
Form: Multi-use vials
Primary Use: Diluent / solvent for reconstitution of lyophilized compounds
Storage: Store at controlled room temperature; refrigerate reconstituted compounds as protocols dictate

Compliance Notice

Bacteriostatic Water is provided strictly for laboratory and research applications. It is not intended for human or veterinary therapeutic use. Researchers are responsible for following aseptic technique, institutional protocols, and all applicable laws and safety guidelines.