What class of drug does adenosine belong to?

Adenosine belongs to the class of antiarrhythmic drugs. It is primarily used in the management of certain types of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Adenosine works by transiently slowing down conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node, which helps to restore a normal heart rhythm during episodes of rapid heart rate.

While adenosine does have vasodilatory effects, categorizing it primarily as a vasodilator would not encompass its main therapeutic use in treating arrhythmias. Furthermore, it does not fit the profiles of calcium channel blockers or nitrates, which have different mechanisms of action. Hence, understanding its role as an antiarrhythmic is crucial for recognizing its utility in clinical scenarios related to heart rhythm disturbances.