Is it true that once an addict always an addict?

Yes?: From a biological standpoint yes in my opinion, people can be sober 10, 20 or more years and still relapse severely if the substance is reintroduced. From a recovery standpoint identifying as an addict is very helpful for most. It keeps people in recovery; grounded, humble and reminds them where they were. Some don't take this same view which may work for them, but most can't escape their biology.

See below: Depends on whether the behaviors indicate a disorder. In psychiatry, drug "dependence" is the term for addiction. Any drug dependence carries a long-term risk of relapse, but treatment can reduce this risk and improve your quality of life.

Nothing is absolute: While there is always a great risk of losing control with any substance, i know several people with history of addiction who went to controlled use especially if it was a substance of a different class. Years later, i wait still for the relapse. However, I have seem others fall apart with minimal use even after decades clean. I suspect the second group is the majority. Don't take a chance.