Bacteriostatic water (BAC water) is sterile water that contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a bacteriostatic preservative. The benzyl alcohol prevents the growth of bacteria, allowing the water to be used for multiple withdrawals from the same vial.
This is the standard solvent for reconstituting lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides in a research setting. Unlike sterile water for injection, which must be used once and discarded, BAC water can be used over multiple days because the preservative maintains sterility.
To reconstitute a peptide, draw the desired volume of BAC water into a syringe, inject it slowly down the inside wall of the peptide vial, and gently swirl until dissolved. Do not shake the vial as this can damage the peptide structure.
Common reconstitution volumes range from 1 to 3 mL per vial, depending on the desired concentration. The concentration determines how much liquid you need to draw for each dose in your research protocol.
Store reconstituted peptides at 2-8 degrees Celsius. BAC water itself should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light. Check expiration dates before use.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. All peptides are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption.