Lots of people don't realize this fully when they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, produces significant dependence which is much more severe than most other opiates including heroin. Because of this, individuals who want to get off of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehabilitation specialists. Anyone who has attempted to stop methadone use by themselves cold turkey can tell you that this is nearly impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With expert methadone detoxification, there is hope for individuals who need to get off of the drug for good. In a drug and alcohol detox program alcohol and drug treatment program which treats methadone dependence and addiction rehab experts do everything they can to ease withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There are no real health hazards related to methadone detoxification if the person is in good health, however this isn't always the case. Illness as a consequence of drug abuse could make methadone detoxification risky, which is another reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional facility.