The alcohol that prevents the growth of the bacteria is known as bacteriostat hence the name bacteriostatic water. It is added to prevent the growth of the bacteria in the vial as diluting medications with water can have severe consequences. The addition of benzyl alcohol makes the BAC water ideal for injection intramuscularly, subcutaneously or intravenously.
Why it’s best for HCG?
Bacteriostatic water is best for mixing with HCG compared with sterile water. The added Benzyl alcohol allows the solution to be reused for up to 28 days. With sterile water, once the vial is opened, you ought to use the solution completely all at once. Sterile water is highly purified with no added preservatives or additives. It is designed to be used only one time. Sterile water only remains sterile until it is opened and exposed to the air.
How long does Bacteriostatic water last after it has been opened?
Once the vial of Bacteriostatic water is opened, the alcohol will prevent the growth of the bacteria for up to 28 days. After 28 days, you need to discard the vial. The vial can be re-entered multiple times with sterile needles without getting contaminated because the alcohol can suppress the growth of most potentially contaminating bacteria.
Are there any side effects of Bacteriostatic water?
Bacteriostatic water is mostly safe. However, there are side effects associated with its use and these side effects are very rare. Never use the Bacteriostatic water without mixing the HCG because the benzyl alcohol can cause the red blood cells to breakdown. Other reported side effects are:
- infection at the injection site
- fever
- tissue death
- venous thrombosis
- abscess formation