Indications
Bacteriostatic Water for Injection is sterile water that contains a small amount of preservative, usually 0.9% Benzyl Alcohol. It is used to dissolve or dilute medicines that come as powders or concentrates before they are injected, especially multi-dose vials that will be used more than once. It is not a medicine by itself.
How It Works
The water dissolves the powdered medicine so it can be injected. The Benzyl Alcohol stops bacteria from growing in the vial after it has been opened, which allows the vial to be used for several doses over a limited time.
Dosage and Administration
The volume used depends on the medicine being prepared and must follow that medicine’s instructions or the prescriber’s directions. Preparation and injection are normally done by a doctor, nurse or pharmacist, or by a patient who has been trained to do so. Use proper aseptic technique, wipe the stopper with alcohol before each use, and use a new sterile needle and syringe every time.
Interactions
Some medicines are not compatible with Benzyl Alcohol or must be dissolved only in preservative-free Sterile Water for Injection or Sodium Chloride; always check the medicine’s leaflet. Never use it to prepare medicines for newborn babies or for injection into the spine.
Contraindications
- Newborn and premature babies: Benzyl Alcohol can cause a serious, sometimes fatal reaction (gasping syndrome).
- Injection into the spinal fluid (intrathecal) or epidural space.
- Allergy to Benzyl Alcohol.
Side Effects
When used correctly, side effects are rare. Injection site pain, redness or irritation can occur. Large amounts of Benzyl Alcohol may cause toxic effects, mainly in infants. Water given in large volumes directly into a vein without other ingredients can break red blood cells (haemolysis), so it must not be injected on its own.
Get urgent medical help if you notice difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a widespread rash, or severe pain, swelling or redness at the injection site.
Pregnancy and Lactation
The small amount of Benzyl Alcohol used is not expected to cause harm in pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, preservative-free products are often preferred for pregnant women; follow your doctor’s advice.
Precautions and Warnings
- Not for direct injection on its own and not for drinking or wound irrigation.
- Do not use if the solution is cloudy, contains particles or the seal is damaged.
- Discard opened vials within the time stated on the pack, usually 28 days.
- Large total doses of Benzyl Alcohol should be avoided.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely with normal use. Very large amounts of Benzyl Alcohol may cause metabolic acidosis and breathing problems, especially in infants; seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Diluent and solvent for injections (pharmaceutical vehicle).
Storage
Store below 30°C, protected from light, as directed on the pack. Do not freeze. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.