Wow
We do have similar issues. I'm a Windows/VMware Server admin and also have bad arthritis in both knees that started when I was 17. That's when I had my first of several scopes and first scripts of pain meds.
Sorry you don't have someone you can trust to dish out your meds like I do with my brother. Without his help I'd be in so much worse shape for sure. It's good that I have no other connections for meds or I'd be in the same boat as 4/day doesn't get rid of all the cravings since my tolerance has gone way up from previous abuse.
Not sure I could quit smoking yet but I need too. I don't like to drink much because my dad was such a bad violent drunk.