Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water is sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol used to dilute medications. Learn about its sizes, uses, and safety.
Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water is sterile water that contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative. It is used to dilute or reconstitute medications, especially those supplied in multi-dose vials, and is manufactured by Pfizer after its acquisition of Hospira. This product is not intended for use in newborns or infants because benzyl alcohol can cause serious adverse reactions.
What Is Pfizer Hospira Bacteriostatic Water?
Bacteriostatic water for injection is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution. The benzyl alcohol prevents bacterial growth, allowing multiple withdrawals from the same vial without contamination. Pfizer Hospira produces this water in various configurations, from single vials to bulk cases.
Many researchers and clinicians search for hospira bacteriostatic water pfizer to confirm the manufacturer and product authenticity. The Pfizer name ensures a consistent quality standard that many medical facilities rely on.
The product is intended for use with medications that require reconstitution, such as certain antibiotics, peptides, and hormones. It is not the same as bacteriostatic sodium chloride 0.9%, which contains salt in addition to benzyl alcohol.
How Bacteriostatic Water Differs from Sterile Water for Injection
The key difference is the preservative. Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol, while sterile water for injection has no preservative. This affects how each product can be used.
| Feature | Bacteriostatic Water | Sterile Water for Injection |
|---|---|---|
| Preservative | 0.9% benzyl alcohol | None |
| Multi-dose use | Yes, up to 28 days after opening | No, single dose only |
| Neonatal use | Contraindicated | Generally safe |
| Typical use | Reconstituting multi-dose medications | Diluting single-dose medications |
Bacteriostatic water is not interchangeable with sterile water for injection in every situation. Always check the medication's prescribing information for the correct diluent.
The choice between the two depends on whether the medication is preserved for multiple uses. Multi-dose vials require a bacteriostatic diluent to prevent bacterial growth between withdrawals. Single-dose vials should use sterile water without preservatives.
Common Sizes and Packaging Options
Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water comes in several sizes to fit different needs. The most common are 10 mL and 30 mL vials, but bulk packaging is also available.
| Size | Packaging | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 10 mL | Single vial or 25 pack | Small-scale reconstitution |
| 30 mL | Single vial or 25 pack | Larger volume dilutions |
| 25 pack | Case of 25 vials | Clinics and pharmacies |
| Case | Multiple 25 packs | Bulk supply for facilities |
The hospira bacteriostatic water 10 ml vial is a popular choice for small clinics and individual practitioners. For larger needs, hospira bacteriostatic water 30ml vials provide more volume per vial. A hospira bacteriostatic water 25 pack is convenient for facilities that reconstitute medications frequently.
The 10 mL size is ideal for small doses, while the 30 mL size reduces the number of vials needed for larger protocols. A full case is typically available for large facilities that need a steady supply.
Proper Use and Safety Considerations
Bacteriostatic water is for dilution purposes only. It should never be administered alone as an injection. Always use aseptic technique when withdrawing from the vial.
Do not use bacteriostatic water in neonates or infants. Benzyl alcohol has been associated with gasping syndrome and other serious complications in this population. Consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions about appropriate use.
Check the vial before each use. Do not use if the solution is cloudy, contains particles, or if the seal is broken. Store at room temperature and protect from freezing.
Bacteriostatic water for injection is not a cure for any condition. It is a diluent that helps deliver medications safely when used correctly.
Benzyl alcohol can cause toxicity in infants, so alternative diluents should be used for neonatal medications. For adults, bacteriostatic water is generally well tolerated when used as directed. Discard any unused portion after 28 days if stored at room temperature, or follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Where to Buy Pfizer Hospira Bacteriostatic Water
You can purchase Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water from medical supply distributors, pharmacies, and online marketplaces. Some sellers list it on Amazon, though availability varies.
When searching for hospira bacteriostatic water amazon, verify the seller's reputation and check expiration dates. Buying from unauthorized sellers can risk product quality.
For bulk orders, hospitals and clinics often order directly from Pfizer or authorized distributors. A full case is typically available for large facilities.
Always ensure the product is labeled for injection use and comes from a licensed supplier.
Prices vary by size and quantity. A single 10 mL vial may cost a few dollars, while a 25 pack or case is more economical per vial. Always compare prices from licensed distributors to avoid counterfeit products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water used for?
It is used to dilute or reconstitute medications, especially multi-dose vials, because the benzyl alcohol preservative prevents bacterial growth. It is not intended for neonatal use. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
Is Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water the same as sterile water for injection?
No. Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol, while sterile water for injection has no preservative. Bacteriostatic water can be used for multiple withdrawals from a vial, but sterile water is for single-dose use only.
Can I buy Pfizer Hospira bacteriostatic water on Amazon?
Some sellers list it on Amazon, but availability varies and quality cannot always be guaranteed. It is safer to purchase from licensed medical supply distributors or directly from Pfizer. Always check expiration dates and seller reputation.
This page provides educational research information and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.