Synthesis and Characterization of O‐Alkylated Guar Gum and its Evaluation as Nanofibrous Film for Drug Delivery Application

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a nanofibrous drug delivery system for the tailored release of salbutamol sulphate using chemically modified guar gum. To address the poor electrospinnability of native guar gum, it was O ‐alkylated through etherification with octyl chloride, and the modified gum was blended with polyvinyl alcohol to fabricate nanofibers via electrospinning. Spectral and thermal analyses confirmed successful modification with retention of thermal stability, whereas rheological studies indicated reduced viscosity. The salbutamol‐loaded nanofibers were further coated with polycaprolactone or Eudragit RS 100 to modulate drug release. Surface morphology and elemental distribution were assessed using field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis, whereas drug incorporation was verified by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Mechanical testing demonstrated adequate strength and flexibility of both coated and uncoated films. In vitro release studies revealed that uncoated nanofibers released 100% of the drug within 5 min, whereas coated formulations sustained release for 36–48 h, depending on coating concentration. Overall, the study underscores the potential of modified guar gum‐based electrospun nanofibers as a versatile drug delivery platform capable of providing both immediate and sustained release profiles for oral mucosal administration through tailored polymeric coatings.