0.9% BENZYL ALCOHOL

A 0.9% benzyl alcohol solution (often called bacteriostatic water for injection) is a sterile, multi-dose diluent containing 9 mg/mL of benzyl alcohol, used primarily to dissolve or dilute drugs for parenteral (intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous) injection. The alcohol acts as an antimicrobial preservative, allowing the vial to be re-entered multiple times for up to 28 days.

Key Aspects of 0.9% Benzyl Alcohol Solution:

• Composition: Sterile, nonpyrogenic preparation of water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol, often in a 30mL vial.

• Purpose: Used to reconstitute, dilute, or dissolve medications.

• Storage: Store at room temperature (

   15C to 30C 

  ), although some sources suggest 15C 

  to 25C

  .

• Shelf Life: The solution is generally usable for up to 28 days after the vial is first opened.

• Warnings: Must not be used in neonates or infants (under 4 weeks old) due to potential toxicity.

Common Uses:

• Bacteriostatic Water/Saline: Used for multi-dose medication administration.

• Reconstitution: Used to dissolve powdered medications (e.g., vaccines, antibiotics, peptides).

• Local Anesthetic: It has mild local anesthetic properties, sometimes used to reduce pain during drug administration.

Important Safety Information:

• Do not use if the solution is discolored or contains particulate matter.

• Compatibility: Ensure the drug being mixed is compatible with benzyl alcohol.