Hospira bacteriostatic water is sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol used to reconstitute medications for injections. Learn about sizes, uses, and safety.
Hospira bacteriostatic water is a sterile, non-pyrogenic water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol, manufactured by Hospira (now part of Pfizer). It is used to reconstitute powdered medications and peptides for injection, and the benzyl alcohol acts as a preservative to prevent bacterial growth in multi-dose vials. Hospira bacteriostatic water is not intended for use in newborns or for intrathecal injection.
What Is Hospira Bacteriostatic Water?
Hospira bacteriostatic water is a diluent, not a medication. It consists of sterile water for injection with 0.9% benzyl alcohol added as a bacteriostatic agent. This preservative allows multiple doses to be drawn from a single vial without introducing bacteria each time.
By contrast, sterile water for injection contains no preservative and is intended for single-dose use only. Bacteriostatic water is therefore preferred for medications that require repeated reconstitution from the same container.
Bacteriostatic water is not the same as bacteriostatic sodium chloride 0.9%. The latter contains salt and is used for different purposes. Always check the label to ensure you have the correct diluent for your specific medication.
Common Uses and Applications
Hospira bacteriostatic water is commonly used to reconstitute lyophilized (freeze-dried) powders, including certain hormones, peptides, and non-antibiotic medications. It is also used in research settings to prepare solutions for laboratory analysis.
- Reconstitution: Dissolving powdered drugs for injection.
- Multi-dose vials: Allowing safe repeated access to a single vial.
- Research: Preparing samples for analytical procedures.
Bacteriostatic water should never be used to dilute blood or blood products, and it is not for intravenous push without prior dilution in a compatible solution. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the medication manufacturer or your healthcare professional.
Available Sizes and Packaging
Hospira bacteriostatic water is available in several vial sizes and bulk packaging options. The most common forms include:
| Product | Volume | Packaging | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single vial | 10 mL | Individual vial | Small-scale reconstitution |
| Single vial | 30 mL | Individual vial | Larger volume needs |
| Multi-pack | 10 mL | 25 pack | Clinics, research labs |
| Case | Various | Case | Bulk purchasing |
For occasional use, a single vial of hospira bacteriostatic water 10 ml is often sufficient. Clinics or research facilities that reconstitute frequently may prefer hospira bacteriostatic water 30ml for higher volume needs. Bulk options such as a hospira bacteriostatic water 25 pack or a hospira bacteriostatic water case can reduce per-unit costs and ensure a steady supply.
Always verify the expiration date and inspect each vial for cracks or particulates before use. Discard any vial that appears cloudy or contains visible particles.
Where to Buy Hospira Bacteriostatic Water
Hospira bacteriostatic water is sold through medical supply distributors, compounding pharmacies, and some online marketplaces. Many people search for hospira bacteriostatic water amazon, but availability on Amazon varies and third-party sellers may not be authorized distributors.
When purchasing bacteriostatic water, prioritize reputable suppliers that provide lot numbers, expiration dates, and certificates of analysis. Avoid sources that cannot verify the product's authenticity. In the United States, bacteriostatic water for injection is a prescription product, though it is also sold for research purposes only in some contexts.
If you are unsure where to obtain it, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for a recommendation. They can help you find a licensed distributor and ensure the product is appropriate for your needs.
Safety, Storage, and Legal Considerations
Hospira bacteriostatic water is for injection after proper reconstitution, but it is not suitable for every patient. Benzyl alcohol can cause serious reactions in newborns, so bacteriostatic water must never be used in neonates. It is also not for intrathecal, epidural, or eye injections.
Store bacteriostatic water at controlled room temperature, protected from light. Do not freeze. Once a multi-dose vial is opened, follow the manufacturer's instructions for beyond-use dating, which is typically 28 days unless otherwise specified.
Allergic reactions to benzyl alcohol are rare but possible. Stop use and seek medical attention if you experience rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any injectable product, and never share vials or needles.
In the United States, bacteriostatic water is regulated as a prescription drug when intended for human use. Research-grade bacteriostatic water is not FDA-approved for human use and should be handled accordingly.
How to Choose the Right Size
Selecting the right size depends on how often you reconstitute medications and how many doses you need. Here is a quick comparison:
| Option | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mL vial | Individuals, low-frequency use | Lower upfront cost, requires frequent reordering |
| 30 mL vial | Higher volume reconstitution | Fewer vials to handle, but must use within beyond-use date |
| 25 pack (10 mL) | Small clinics, research labs | Convenient, reduces per-vial cost |
| Case | Large facilities, bulk users | Lowest per-unit price, requires storage space |
If you are unsure, start with a smaller quantity and scale up as needed. Remember that once a vial is punctured, its shelf life is limited. Buying in bulk only saves money if you can use the product before it expires or exceeds its beyond-use date.
Final Thoughts
Hospira bacteriostatic water is a trusted diluent for multi-dose reconstitution, thanks to its 0.9% benzyl alcohol preservative. It is available in 10 mL and 30 mL vials, as well as 25 packs and cases for larger operations. Always buy from reputable sources, store it correctly, and consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hospira bacteriostatic water used for?
Hospira bacteriostatic water is used to reconstitute powdered medications and peptides for injection. The 0.9% benzyl alcohol preservative allows multiple doses to be drawn from a single vial. It is not a medication itself and should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional.
Is Hospira bacteriostatic water safe for human injection?
Hospira bacteriostatic water is safe for human injection when used as a diluent for compatible medications, but it is not for use in newborns due to the risk of benzyl alcohol toxicity. It is also not for intrathecal or eye injections. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any injectable product.
Where can I buy Hospira bacteriostatic water?
Hospira bacteriostatic water is available through medical supply distributors, compounding pharmacies, and some online marketplaces. In the United States, it is a prescription product when intended for human use, though research-grade versions are sold for laboratory purposes only. Verify the supplier's authenticity and check expiration dates before purchasing.
This page provides educational research information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.