Today, more and more people are using bacteriophages to treat bacterial infections. Due to its specificity and safety, phage therapy is becoming a popular alternative to antibiotics. However, for treatment to be effective, it is important to know how to properly store bacteriophages at home. Improper storage can lead to loss of potency and reduce its therapeutic effect.

Basic rules

First of all, it's important to understand that bacteriophages are biological preparations . They contain viruses that parasitize bacterial cells and require special conditions to remain viable.

The main storage requirement is maintaining the correct temperature. Most bacteriophages are recommended to be stored at a temperature of between 2°C and 8°C, i.e., in the refrigerator. It is crucial to avoid freezing! Freezing the preparation can damage the structure of the viral particles, rendering them inactive.

Another important tip: store the bottle upright and tightly closed. This helps prevent contamination or evaporation of the medication.

Additionally, bacteriophages should be protected from direct sunlight. Light can destroy the active particles, so it's best to keep the vial in its original packaging or in a dark place in the refrigerator.

Is it possible to transport bacteriophages and how to do it correctly?

Sometimes it's necessary to transport medications containing bacteriophages , for example, if you purchase them from a pharmacy or order delivery. In this case, it's crucial to maintain the correct temperature throughout the entire journey.

The best option is to use special cooler bags or containers with cooling elements. If this is not possible, ensure the phages are refrigerated as soon as possible after purchase.

Short-term storage at room temperature (for example, up to 1–2 hours) generally does not result in loss of potency. However, prolonged storage outside the refrigerator can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Also, pay attention to the expiration date. Once opened, bacteriophages should be used within a short period—usually 7–10 days. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

What to look for when using an open vial of phages

After opening a vial of bacterial viruses, it is crucial to maintain sterility. Always use a sterile syringe or pipette to draw up the sample. Avoid touching the neck of the vial with your hands to avoid contamination.

If you notice any change in the solution's color, sediment, or cloudiness, do not use this product under any circumstances. This may indicate contamination or damage to the active particles.

Another tip: avoid frequently removing the bottle from the refrigerator and warming it to room temperature unless necessary. It's best to immediately pour the required amount of medication into a separate sterile container and leave the rest in the refrigerator.

Particular care must be taken when storing phage cocktails containing a mixture of different bacteriophages. These preparations are even more sensitive to changes in temperature and environmental conditions.

Proper storage of phage preparations at home is essential for successful treatment. Following simple rules will help preserve their potency and ensure high therapeutic effectiveness. Remember: bacteriophages are live biological agents that require careful handling, like any other sensitive preparation. By following recommendations for temperature control, sterility, and expiration dates, you can maximize the benefits of phage therapy without the risk of unexpected complications.