Bacteriostatic Water, USP, is a sterile water solution containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative, which effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria in the water. This type of water is widely used in laboratory settings for the preparation of research samples, with approximately 90% of laboratories utilizing bacteriostatic water for their sterile laboratory diluent needs. The USP standard for Bacteriostatic Water, USP, is outlined in the USP General Chapters: Water for Pharmaceutical Purposes <1231>, which provides guidelines for the quality and purity of the water.
Introduction to Bacteriostatic Water
Bacteriostatic Water, USP, is an essential component in many laboratory procedures, including the preparation of research samples, dilution of reagents, and as a vehicle for dissolution of lyophilized materials. The addition of 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative allows the water to remain sterile for extended periods, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the accuracy of research results. According to the USP General Chapters: Antimicrobial Effectiveness <51>, benzyl alcohol has been shown to be effective against a wide range of microorganisms, making it an ideal preservative for Bacteriostatic Water, USP.
Specifications and Properties
The specifications and properties of Bacteriostatic Water, USP, are strictly regulated by the USP standards, ensuring that the water meets the highest standards of quality and purity. The following table outlines the key specifications and properties of Bacteriostatic Water, USP:
| Property |
Specification |
| Purity |
Meets USP standards for Water for Pharmaceutical Purposes <1231> |
| Benzyl Alcohol Concentration |
0.9% |
| Sterility |
Meets USP standards for Sterility <71> |
| pH |
5.5-7.0 |
These specifications ensure that Bacteriostatic Water, USP, is suitable for use in a wide range of laboratory applications, including the preparation of research samples and the dissolution of lyophilized materials.
Applications in Laboratory Research
Bacteriostatic Water, USP, has a wide range of applications in laboratory research, including the preparation of research samples, dilution of reagents, and as a vehicle for dissolution of lyophilized materials. For example, researchers may use Bacteriostatic Water, USP, to dissolve lyophilized proteins or peptides, or to dilute reagents for use in assays and other laboratory procedures. The use of Bacteriostatic Water, USP, ensures that the research samples and reagents remain sterile, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring the accuracy of research results. Alpha Amino offers a range of research supplies, including Bacteriostatic Water, USP, to support laboratory research.
Handling and Storage
Bacteriostatic Water, USP, should be handled and stored in accordance with standard aseptic laboratory techniques to maintain its sterility. The water should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. When handling Bacteriostatic Water, USP, researchers should use sterile pipettes and tubes to minimize the risk of contamination. It is also recommended to use a multiple-dose vial or single-dose vial, depending on the specific application and research needs. For convenient and sterile handling, researchers can purchase Bacteriostatic Water from reputable suppliers.
Quality Control and Assurance
The quality control and assurance of Bacteriostatic Water, USP, are critical to ensuring its suitability for use in laboratory research. The USP standards for Bacteriostatic Water, USP, provide guidelines for the quality and purity of the water, including the concentration of benzyl alcohol and the sterility of the water. Manufacturers of Bacteriostatic Water, USP, must adhere to these standards to ensure that the water meets the required specifications and properties.
Frequently asked questions
What is the concentration of benzyl alcohol in Bacteriostatic Water, USP?
The concentration of benzyl alcohol in Bacteriostatic Water, USP, is 0.9%. This concentration has been shown to be effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria and maintaining the sterility of the water.
What are the applications of Bacteriostatic Water, USP, in laboratory research?
Bacteriostatic Water, USP, has a wide range of applications in laboratory research, including the preparation of research samples, dilution of reagents, and as a vehicle for dissolution of lyophilized materials. It is an essential component in many laboratory procedures, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of research results.
How should Bacteriostatic Water, USP, be handled and stored?
Bacteriostatic Water, USP, should be handled and stored in accordance with standard aseptic laboratory techniques to maintain its sterility. The water should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and sterile pipettes and tubes should be used when handling the water.
What are the specifications and properties of Bacteriostatic Water, USP?
The specifications and properties of Bacteriostatic Water, USP, are strictly regulated by the USP standards, ensuring that the water meets the highest standards of quality and purity. The key specifications and properties include the concentration of benzyl alcohol, sterility, pH, and purity.
Where can I purchase Bacteriostatic Water, USP?
Bacteriostatic Water, USP, can be purchased from reputable suppliers, such as Alpha Amino, which offers a range of research supplies, including Bacteriostatic Water, USP. Researchers can visit the Alpha Amino website to purchase Bacteriostatic Water and other research supplies.
Alpha Amino products are sold strictly for laboratory and research use only and are not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, or consumption.
