Comparison 2. Formoterol 9‐12 mcg BD versus dose‐adjusted, SR theophylline.

Outcome or subgroup title	No. of studies	No. of participants	Statistical method	Effect size
1 FEV1(% predicted)	1		Mean Difference (IV, Fixed, 95% CI)	Totals not selected
2 PEF variability	1		Mean Difference (IV, Fixed, 95% CI)	Totals not selected
3 Use of rescue medication	1		Mean Difference (IV, Fixed, 95% CI)	Totals not selected
4 Symptom score (day‐time)	1		Mean Difference (IV, Fixed, 95% CI)	Totals not selected
5 Symptom score (night‐time)	1		Mean Difference (IV, Fixed, 95% CI)	Totals not selected
6 Adverse events ‐ Any	2	126	Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI)	0.45 [0.21, 0.95]
7 Serum ECP value (mcg/l)	1		Mean Difference (IV, Fixed, 95% CI)	Totals not selected