Efficacy of orally administered salbutamol and theophylline in pre-schoolchildren with asthma.

Oral administration of salbutamol and theophylline has been shown to be effective in relieving bronchoconstriction in asthmatic children aged between 3 and 5 years. Changes in respiratory function were monitored using a Wright's low range peak flow meter and a modification of the forced oscillation technique. A combination of both drugs in half doses was as effective as either alone. Nebulised salbutamol produced considerable further improvement in lung function.