Many people don't realize this completely when they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription medication doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illicitly, produces considerable dependence which is way more extreme than other opiates like heroin. Because of this, individuals who would like to get off of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of treatment specialists. Individuals who have tried to stop methadone use independently abruptly can advise you that this is nearly impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for those who desire to get off of the drug once and for all. Inside a drug detoxification facility drug and alcohol rehab program which handled methadone dependence and addiction treatment professionals do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is a safe process. There aren't any real health risks related to methadone detoxification when the individual is in good health, however this isn't always true. Illness due to drug abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification in a specialist setting.