How Long Can I Live Drinking Vodka?

I was a heroin addict on and off from the age of 18 up until 2009, for about 12 years. I also occasionally used marijuana. Heroin is not legal, and unfortunately, neither is marijuana where I live. So in 2009, I quit everything to prioritize my health, financial stability, and personal principles.

Finally, I managed to get on a pharmacotherapy program. I started with methadone, followed by Subutex, and eventually weaned off both, only to do well for a little less than 10 years.

Unfortunately, in 2018, I faced a significant trauma. While I did not return to heroin or marijuana, the only form of self-medication I could think of was alcohol. Specifically, I gravitated towards vodka.

Back then, I despised the taste of beer and enjoyed fruity wines. Over the years, I had seen the destructive effects of alcohol on families and physical health, but the trauma and pain were so overwhelming that I had no choice but to force myself to start drinking vodka.

Remarkably, it worked. I found comfort in vodka and, eventually, I began consuming a 750ml bottle daily. For at least 3 out of the last 4 years, I intended to cut back, but I would invariably slip up. I limit my vodka consumption to before sunset and never drink and drive. Despite these restrictions, I still manage to drink a whole bottle in about 6 hours. I do not experience hangovers, which is both a blessing and a curse.

I often pair vodka with 2 to 5 300ml glasses of wine (11% ABV), making it difficult to track my exact alcohol intake in grams. Yet, I drink what I consider to be a large amount. I have reached the four-year mark of this excessive vodka consumption.

Preparing to Cut Back

Despite the challenges, I have resolved to cut back and ultimately quit vodka and wine. I plan to attempt this in the winter, preferably in a hospital setting for 3 to 5 days. My primary concern is the risk of delirium tremens (DTs) or seizures, which could be life-threatening. I have never experienced withdrawal symptoms from alcohol before, having only withdrawn from heroin in the past.

Seeking Insights

I would appreciate hearing from someone who has gone through withdrawal from both alcohol and heroin. Their insights would provide a more educated comparison of the differences between the two.

Good luck to everyone. Stay safe.