Many people don't realize this completely once they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription medication doesn't actually effectively resolve opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illegally, creates considerable dependence which is far more severe than other opiates including heroin. Due to this, individuals who want to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of treatment professionals. Anyone who has attempted to stop methadone use by themselves cold turkey can tell you that this is practically impossible, and many relapse in a short time. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who desire to abstain from the drug for good. Inside a drug and alcohol detox facility drug and alcohol rehab program which deals with methadone dependency and addiction rehabilitation experts do everything they can to relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There are no real health threats linked to methadone detoxification in the event the individual is in good health, however, this isn't always the case. Illness as a consequence of drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification dangerous, which is another reason people should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional facility.