The invention relates to a method for controlling an engine braking device for a combustion engine in motor vehicles, wherein the engine braking device has an intake system, an exhaust system, gas exchange valves associated with the combustion engine, exhaust turbo-charging by at least one exhaust turbocharger integrated into the exhaust system and the intake system, and an engine braking unit, wherein the engine braking unit has a decompression brake, which influences at least one outlet valve of the gas exchange valves and is dependent on the exhaust gas backpressure, and a brake flap, which is arranged in the exhaust system. To achieve a precisely controllable engine braking power in the engine braking mode, the demanded braking torque is controlled in accordance with the boost pressure of the exhaust turbocharger and with the exhaust gas backpressure upstream of the brake flap, which is arranged directly upstream of an exhaust turbine of the exhaust turbocharger. A suitable engine braking device is furthermore proposed.