Last Updated on March 3, 2024 by Lydia Martin
How many shots of vodka to get drunk? Ask any liquor enthusiast — or, ahem, expert — and they’ll probably tell you that drinking the crystal clear drink vodka is one of the fastest ways to get drunk.
But how much vodka can you actually drink before you’re considered completely drunk? We’ll let you know in a second.
How Much Vodka Can Get You Drunk?
To get a little tipsy, an average individual would need around 2 to 4 shots of vodka.
You may start feeling drunk with 5 to 9 shots. In our experience, more than 10 shots of vodka will leave you feeling extremely drunk.
Vodka is a type of distilled alcoholic drink that is usually void of odor and flavor, making it the perfect alcohol base for many mixed drinks and cocktails.
It is considered one of the strongest liquors, so yes, it can get you drunk.
Vodka has a minimum bottling level of 35 percent alcohol by volume (ABV), which is pretty high compared to the 3 to 13 percent ABV of beer, the 11.6 percent ABV of wine, the 35 to 55 percent ABV of gin.
Some vodka brands are bottled at a higher ABV, with Spirytus Rektyfikowany considered the strongest vodka in the world at 96 percent ABV.
More premium quality vodka tends to be stronger, and sometimes one shot glass of vodka can leave one feeling a little bit drunk already.
Also Read: Does Vodka Evaporate?
Can Vodka Make You Feel Tipsy?
Yes, vodka can make you feel tipsy. When consumed, the alcohol in vodka, or any other alcoholic beverage, is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, alcohol affects the central nervous system, leading to changes in mood, behavior, and cognitive function.
Vodka typically has a high alcohol by volume (ABV), often around 40%, making it a potent alcoholic beverage. As you consume vodka, it depresses the central nervous system, causing a sense of relaxation and euphoria.
However, excessive consumption can lead to increased intoxication, impairing coordination, judgment, and reaction time.
It’s crucial to drink responsibly and be aware of individual tolerance levels to avoid negative consequences associated with alcohol consumption, such as impaired judgment, accidents, or health issues.
Always adhere to recommended guidelines for moderate drinking and seek professional advice if needed.
Number of Vodka Shots To Get Drunk
Men
So, how many shots does it take to get drunk? It would take an average-sized man 7 to 9 shots of vodka before he would start feeling drunk, with a maximum limit of 10 to 11 shots before he’s too drunk to do anything else.
As mentioned earlier, men have higher alcohol tolerance than women.
Fun fact: the Russians love their vodka so much that they can continue drinking up to half a liter (16.5 ounces) and still feel sober!
Here are some vodka brands made in Russia.
Also Read: Skyy Vodka Flavors
Women
After 3 shots of vodka, most women would start feeling a bit drunk, but not in any extreme way. Maybe more like armed with enough liquid courage to hit up the cutie at the far end of the bar.
After 5 to 6 shots, most women will probably be totally drunk, and we don’t advise you to go for more. But, how many mL is one shot?
Note that the above statistical data will be ballpark figures of how much vodka is needed to get drunk. Each shot will be the US standard of 1.5 ounces, and we will consider only vodkas with an ABV of 40 percent.
Of course, suppose you are taking your time in between shots, eating food, or even simply making an effort to take small sips of vodka.
In that case, it will definitely take you longer to get drunk, and you may even end up consuming a lot more vodka, so the below will not apply to you.
Also Read: Guide to Vodka Proof
Factors Affecting Vodka Intake in a Person
Mood
If you aren’t too hung up about drinking, your alcohol tolerance might surprise you.
It’s said that those who were in a happier mood or weren’t pressured when it came to drinking vodka drank way more than those who were nervous, who got drunk sooner. But what vodka type causes less hangover?
Weight
A person with less body weight will definitely not be able to handle as much vodka (or any alcohol) as the next person who weighs a lot more.
In other words, the less you weigh, the more affected you are by alcohol.
Also Read: Vodka vs Rum
Gender
Women generally have lower alcohol tolerance than men, and it’s not because of some gender inequality thing.
Men’s and women’s bodies are made differently. Women biologically have less alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) in their bodies than men, a stomach and liver enzyme responsible for breaking down alcoholic drinks.
Side Drinks & Chasers
Have you ever tried to drink on an empty stomach? It didn’t turn out so well for you, did it? [1] The same concept applies to drinking vodka with chasers, side drinks, and snacks.
Suppose your stomach is full of other fruit juices like lemon juice, olives, peanuts, and other consumable products commonly paired with alcohol.
In that case, it can help in staying sober as your body will have to work twice as hard to absorb the vodka enough to get you to feel drunk.
Read:
- Our Favorite Non-Alcoholic Drinks
- Who Makes Kirkland Vodkas?
- How Many Shots Are In A Liter?
- How Many Beers Are Equal To A Vodka Shot?
- Grey Goose & Belvedere Vodka Comparison
Popular Vodka Brands
| Vodka Brand | Alcohol By Volume (ABV) |
| 40 | |
| 40 | |
| 40 | |
| 40 | |
| 40 | |
| 37.5 | |
| 40 | |
| 40 | |
| 40 | |
| 40 |
Benefits Of Drinking Vodka
While moderate alcohol consumption, including vodka, may have some potential benefits, it’s crucial to note that excessive drinking can lead to serious health issues. Here are five potential benefits associated with moderate vodka consumption:
Cardiovascular Health
Moderate alcohol consumption, including vodka, has been linked to potential cardiovascular benefits. It may increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly known as “good” cholesterol, which can help protect against heart disease. However, it’s essential to emphasize moderation, as excessive alcohol intake can have detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system.
Social Relaxation
Vodka, like other alcoholic beverages, can serve as a social lubricant, promoting relaxation and reducing social anxiety. Enjoying a moderate amount in a social setting may facilitate bonding, communication, and overall well-being. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to be mindful of personal limits and avoid excessive drinking to prevent negative consequences.
Antioxidant Properties
Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption may provide antioxidant benefits. Vodka, when consumed in moderation, contains compounds that could have antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. However, relying on alcohol for antioxidants is not a substitute for a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods.
Potential Stress Reduction
Consuming vodka in moderation may temporarily alleviate stress and induce a sense of relaxation. The central nervous system depressant effects of alcohol can lead to a calming sensation. Nevertheless, relying on alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress is not advisable, as it can contribute to dependence and other negative health outcomes.
Digestive Benefits
Some cultures believe that moderate vodka consumption can aid digestion. It is thought to stimulate gastric juices and promote digestion when consumed in small amounts. However, it’s essential to approach this claim with caution, as excessive alcohol intake can have adverse effects on the digestive system, including inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
FAQs
Are five shots of vodka a lot?
Yes, five shots of vodka are considered a lot, especially if you plan to drink them all in one go. You might even end up getting sick and throwing up.
If you plan on drinking five shots, it’s better to go slow and spread it out. Maybe drink one shot now and another shot in 30 minutes to an hour. Find out how long vodka takes to kick in here.
How long does being drunk with vodka last?
If you get drunk on vodka, the effects of intoxication on your brain, such as lightheadedness, euphoria, slurred speech, and decreased coordination, will probably last about six hours.
That’s not counting the hangover and detoxification period, though, which can last anywhere from 48 to 72 hours. But, can you mix vodka and tequila?
So, How Many Shots of Vodka To Get Drunk?
Being drunk is great fun, but it’s no fun to stay drunk and miss out on most of the party’s happenings. Take note that on average, women should only stick to an average of five shots, while men can go up to seven.
Now that you know just how much vodka to drink to get drunk, you’re better equipped for the next time you plan on partying the night away!
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