Bacteriostatic Water for Injection (BWFI) is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution of water that contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol (9 mg/mL) as a preservative. It is used to dilute or dissolve medications for injection and is distinct from sterile water in that it inhibits bacterial growth, allowing for multiple uses from the same vial within a specified time.
Key Components
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Water for Injection (WFI): Sterile, purified water that meets pharmacopeial standards.
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Benzyl Alcohol (0.9%): A bacteriostatic agent that prevents microbial contamination after opening.
Primary Uses
1. Peptide Reconstitution
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Commonly used to reconstitute lyophilized peptides (e.g., BPC-157, GHK-Cu, PT-141) before subcutaneous injection.
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Preserves peptide stability for up to 28 days if refrigerated.
2. Injectable Medications
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Used to dilute drugs like hormones (HGH, HCG), antibiotics, or other IV/IM injectable medications.
3. Multi-dose Applications
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Unlike sterile water (single-use), bacteriostatic water allows for multiple withdrawals from the same vial without contamination, making it cost-effective and practical for repeated dosing.
How to Use Bacteriostatic Water
Reconstituting Peptides (Example)
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Prepare materials: Alcohol wipes, syringe, vial of peptide, bacteriostatic water.
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Clean vial tops with alcohol.
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Draw desired amount of bacteriostatic water into a syringe (e.g., 1 mL).
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Inject water slowly into the peptide vial (against the side of the vial to avoid foam).
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Gently swirl until fully dissolved. Do not shake.
Storage Instructions
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Store reconstituted peptides in the refrigerator (2–8°C / 36–46°F).
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Once opened, a vial of bacteriostatic water should be used within 28 days.
Advantages
| Feature | Bacteriostatic Water | Sterile Water |
|---|---|---|
| Contains Preservative | Yes (benzyl alcohol) | No |
| Multi-use (within 28 days) | Yes | No (single use only) |
| Shelf Life After Opening | ~28 days | Use immediately |
| Use in Peptide Reconstitution | Ideal | Acceptable for one-time use |
Cautions and Considerations
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Not for use in neonates: Benzyl alcohol is associated with “gasping syndrome” in newborns.
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Do not use IV in large volumes: The benzyl alcohol content makes it unsuitable for large-volume intravenous infusions.
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Use aseptic technique: Always wipe vials and use sterile equipment to avoid contamination.
Storage and Shelf Life
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Unopened Vial: Typically has a 2–3 year shelf life when stored at room temperature.
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After Opening: Must be used within 28 days due to potential bacterial contamination over time.
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