Lots of people don't realize this fully when they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illicitly, creates significant dependence which is far more extreme than other opiates like heroin. For this reason, individuals who want to stop use of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab professionals. Anyone who has tried to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can tell you that this is almost impossible, and most relapse in a short time. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who desire to get off of the drug once and for all. In an alcohol and drug detox program alcohol and drug rehabilitation program which deals with methadone dependence and addiction rehabilitation experts do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is really a safe course of action. There are no real health risks associated with methadone detoxification when the individual is healthy, however, this isn't always true. Illness because of drug or alcohol use could make methadone detoxification dangerous, which is one more reason people should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional facility.