Comparative Evaluation of Hematological and Biochemical Safety Profiles of Chitosan Nano-encapsulated Bromelain Formulations with Levamisole in Goats Under Tropical Smallholder Systems

This study evaluated the hematological and biochemical safety profiles of a novel anthelmintic (CNB) at two doses in comparison to levamisole in goats over 56 days. Twenty-four healthy animals were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 6): CNB270 (270 mg/kg), CNB360 (360 mg/kg), levamisole (0.5 ml/2kg), and a negative control. Periodically, blood sampling quantified liver enzymes (ALT, AST), renal markers (creatinine, urea), and hematological indices (PCV, Hb, RBC, WBC, platelets). Results showed excellent hepatic tolerability for both CNB doses, with similar ALT values (p > 0.05) and minimal AST fluctuations compared to levamisole (p = 0.009). CNB270 showed improved renal profiles with much lower creatinine (p = 0.0007) and similar urea values. CNB360 and levamisole induced severe anemia (decrease in PCV: 32.1–20.8%, p = 0.0025; and 30.9–23.1%, p = 0.014, respectively), while CNB270 exhibited consistent erythrocyte indices (p > 0.05). All the therapies preserved platelet counts (p > 0.05), but CNB360 and levamisole caused leukopenia (decline in WBC to 5.2 and 3.5×10⁹/L respectively, p < 0.05). These findings render CNB270 the optimum formulation, providing equilibrium between anthelmintic efficacy and optimal margins of safety. The 270 mg/kg fell within hematological tolerance and maintained renal function without the hepatic stress or immunosuppression caused by elevated doses or levamisole. This study provides critical evidence supporting the inclusion of CNB270 in small ruminant parasite control programs, particularly in nutritionally challenged herds in which the maintenance of erythrocyte mass and immune status is vital.