Many individuals don't realize this fully once they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't in fact treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, creates significant dependence which is much more severe than most other opiates including heroin. For that reason, individuals who want to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehab specialists. Individuals who have attempted to stop methadone use independently cold turkey can tell you that this is nearly impossible, and most relapse very quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there's hope for individuals who need to abstain from the drug forever. Inside a drug and alcohol detoxification center drug rehabilitation program which deals with methadone dependency and addiction rehab professionals work tirelessly to help ease withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is really a safe course of action. There are no real health hazards connected with methadone detoxification in the event the individual is in good health, but this isn't always true. Poor health due to drug abuse might make methadone detoxification risky, which is another reason people should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional setting.