Many individuals don't realize this fully when they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't actually effectively resolve opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illicitly, creates significant dependence which is far more extreme than most other opiates like heroin. For that reason, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of treatment professionals. Those who have attempted to stop methadone use on their own abruptly can advise you that this is almost impossible, and most relapse very quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is certainly hope for individuals who desire to abstain from the drug completely. In an alcohol and drug detoxification program drug rehab program which deals with methadone dependency and addiction treatment experts do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There aren't any real health problems linked to methadone detoxification when the person is healthy, however, this isn't always true. Illness as a result of substance abuse may make methadone detoxification dangerous, and is another reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification inside a specialist setting.