Many individuals don't realize this completely once they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illicitly, creates significant dependence which is much more severe than other opiates including heroin. For that reason, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of treatment specialists. Anyone who has tried to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can advise you that this is almost impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With expert methadone detoxification, there's hope for many who would like to abstain from the drug forever. Within a drug and alcohol detoxification facility alcohol and drug rehab center which treats methadone dependence and addiction treatment experts work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is really a safe course of action. There are no real health hazards associated with methadone detoxification if the person is in good health, but this isn't always the case. Bad health as a consequence of substance abuse might make methadone detoxification dangerous, and is one more reason people should undergo methadone detoxification inside a specialist facility.