Background Tuberculosis is the leading cause of mortality from infectious diseases worldwide, with rifampicin as a first-line drug. However, its poor solubility and inconsistent bioavailability limit therapeutic outcomes and contribute to drug resistance. Objective This study aimed to enhance rifampicin solubility and delivery using chitosan-based nanosuspensions. Methods Rifampicin-loaded nanosuspensions were prepared by the ionic gelation method employing chitosan as a biodegradable polymer and Pluronic F68, Tween 80, and Span 60 as stabilizers. The formulations were evaluated for drug entrapment efficiency, particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphology (SEM), in vitro drug release, kinetic modeling, and stability. Results Entrapment efficiency ranged from 75.7% to 89.3%, with Pluronic F68 formulations showing the highest values. The optimized batch (F24) demonstrated a mean particle size of 120.08 nm, PDI of 0.110, and zeta potential of +48.49 mV, indicating good stability. SEM confirmed spherical, non-agglomerated particles. The optimized nanosuspension achieved a sustained drug release of 87.17% over 12 hours and followed zero-order and Korsmeyer–Peppas kinetics. Stability studies revealed consistent performance under refrigerated storage for 60 days. Conclusion Chitosan-based nanosuspensions significantly improved rifampicin solubility, stability, and release profile. The optimized formulation offers a promising approach to overcome bioavailability limitations of rifampicin and may enhance therapeutic efficacy in tuberculosis management. This strategy can potentially be extended to other poorly soluble drugs.
Sahu et al. (2026) studied this question.