Lots of people don't understand this completely whenever they commence a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription drug doesn't in fact treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illegally, creates considerable dependence which is far more severe than other opiates like heroin. For this reason, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehabilitation professionals. Individuals who have tried to stop methadone use on their own abruptly can tell you that this is practically impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With expert methadone detoxification, there is hope for individuals who desire to get off of the drug completely. In an alcohol and drug detox center drug and alcohol treatment facility which deals with methadone dependency and addiction rehabilitation experts work tirelessly to relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is a safe process. There are no real health problems associated with methadone detoxification if the person is in good health, however, this isn't always the case. Illness because of substance abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason people should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional setting.