Bacteriostatic Water vs Sterile Water

What is Sterile Water?

Definition: Purified water that has been distilled and sterilized to remove all contaminants, including microbes.

Characteristics:

• Does not contain preservatives or antimicrobial agents
• Suitable for single-use injections (IV, IM, SC) and irrigation
• Must be discarded once opened or exposed to environment

What is Bacteriostatic Water?

Definition: Sterile water containing a bacteriostatic agent (typically 0.9% benzyl alcohol) to inhibit bacterial growth.

Characteristics:

• Contains preservative to allow multi-dose use from same vial
• Intended solely for injections, not irrigation
• Contraindicated in neonates due to potential benzyl alcohol toxicity

Key Differences

Preservative:

• Sterile water: No preservatives
• Bacteriostatic water: Contains bacteriostatic agent (e.g., benzyl alcohol)

Usage:

• Sterile water: Single-use only
• Bacteriostatic water: Multi-dose from same vial (up to 28 days)

Indications:

• Sterile water: Injections and irrigation
• Bacteriostatic water: Injections only, avoid in neonates and alcohol allergies

Shelf Life After Opening:

• Sterile water: Must be discarded
• Bacteriostatic water: Can be used up to 28 days with aseptic techniques

Safety Considerations

• Understand differences to ensure proper use and patient safety
• Follow aseptic techniques for multi-dose bacteriostatic water vials
• Avoid bacteriostatic water in neonates and those with alcohol allergies