Bacteriostatic Water vs Sterile Water
- Dylan
The main difference is the preservative.
“Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol and comes in multiple-dose vials. Sterile water for injection has no preservative and comes in single-dose containers.”
Don’t use one in place of the other unless the medication’s labeling approves it.
| Feature | Bacteriostatic Water | Sterile Water |
|---|---|---|
| Preservative | 0.9% benzyl alcohol | None |
| Container | Multiple-dose vial | Single-dose container |
| Multiple withdrawals | Yes, if the label allows and aseptic technique is used | No, single-use only |
| After opening | Discard after 28 daysnless the label says otherwise | Discard any unused portion immediately |
| Can it be injected alone? | No. It is a diluent only | No. It is hypotonic and can damage red blood cells |
| Newborns | Not suitable, because of benzyl alcohol | No preservative, but follow the label |
| Works best with | Drugs compatible with benzyl alcohol | Drugs that need a preservative-free diluent |
When to use each
| Product | Best Suited For |
|---|---|
| Bacteriostatic Water | Medications whose labeling permits a preservative diluent and that will be accessed more than once from the same vial. |
| Sterile Water for Injection | Medications that need a preservative-free diluent, or that are mixed and used in a single dose. |
When not to use each
| Product | Avoid When |
|---|---|
| Bacteriostatic Water | For newborns and premature infants, anyone sensitive to benzyl alcohol, or any drug not compatible with benzyl alcohol. |
| Sterile Water for Injection | When injecting it on its own or reusing an opened container. |
Note: Bacteriostatic water is not always an alternative to sterile water, and vice versa. Neither product should ever be used against its labeling instructions.
Can you substitute one for the other?
No, you cannot always substitute one for the other, because they differ in composition and intended use. Only do so when the medication’s labeling permits it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about Bacteriostatic Water vs Sterile Water.
Is bacteriostatic water the same as sterile water?
How long does bacteriostatic water last once opened?
Can sterile water be used more than once?
Willam D.
Dylan writes educational guides about bacteriostatic water, sterile water, and injectable diluents for Hospirabacteriostaticwater.com. His articles are based on current U.S. product labeling, including DailyMed, and are for general information only.
“This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always follow the product and medication labeling and consult a healthcare professional.”
All Vial Sizes
Facts About Hospira Bac Water
- Hospira, Inc. (a Pfizer company)
- Benzyl Alcohol 0.9% (9 mg/mL)
- 30 mL multiple-dose vial
- Store at Controlled Room Temperature
Related Blogs
Related Blogs
We are providing every type of guides for Hospira Bac Water usage.