[Long-term out-patient treatment of children with asthma with a theophylline-ephedrine-hydroxyzine combination (author's transl)].

Drug combinations play an important role in the day-to-day management of asthmatic out-patients. The long-term use of such a combination (Marax) was assessed in 46 asthmatic children aged 1;6 to 13;8 years who were followed up for a maximum of 7 years. Using a daily dosage of up to 16 mg/kg bodyweight more than 80% of children showed definite improvement leading to prevention or significant reduction of acute attacks and clearly reduced dyspnoeic states between attacks. Patients with very severe forms appeared to be influenced less favourably. Spirometric values were obtained in some of the patients and indicated reduction of obstruction. Patients with intrinsic and extrinsic asthma responded satisfactorily. The value of a long-term prophylactic treatment is discussed. These preliminary results appear to support this form of therapy.