Thiamphenicol is the less toxic structural analog of the broad-spectrum antibiotic chloramphenicol. It inhibits peptidyl transferase reaction during bacterial protein synthesis by binding and distorting the 505 ribosomal sub-unit of the bacterial cell. As a chloramphenicol derivative, thiamphenicol is active against most Gram-positive and many Gram-negative pathogenic (aerobic and anaerobic) bacteria with a more superior spectrum of activity than erythromycin and amoxicillin.

Oxytetracycline, the most commonly used tetracycline in veterinary medicine, is an antibiotic frequently used to treat lung infections. It has been observed to accumulate in pneumonic over normal lung acting as a bactericidal agent (at higher concentrations) against common respiratory pathogens. Like other tetracyclines, it binds to the 30S ribosomal sub-unit of actively multiplying bacteria.

Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid used for varied purposes such as an anti-inflammatory agent, counteragent to side effects of oncologic treatments, as well as treatment for adrenal insufficiency, Addison's disease and high altitude illness.

The combination of dexamethasone, thiamphenicol and oxytetracycline in Avitron is beneficial to the diseased animal due to the potent anti-inflammatory effects of dexamethasone and the bactericidal activity of both antibiotics in higher concentrations. Immediate reduction of inflammation, especially in cases of swollen head syndrome, can aid the animal in regaining its comfort, mobility and feeding habits.