Dextrans and derivatized dextrans have beneficial physical properties as potential carriers in engineered-particle formulations. This technical article describes how amorphous dextran-10-based engineered powders enabled dry-powder formulations of a water-soluble active (albuterol sulfate). Covalent modification of the dextran backbone extended this formulation approach to the manufacture of a water-insoluble active (fluticasone propionate).