Many individuals don't realize this completely whenever they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription medicine doesn't in fact treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illicitly, produces considerable dependence which is much more severe than most other opiates including heroin. Because of this, individuals who would like to get off of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehabilitation specialists. Anyone who has tried to stop methadone use independently abruptly can tell you that this is virtually impossible, and most relapse in a short time. With expert methadone detoxification, there is hope for those who desire to get off of the drug completely. Within a drug and alcohol detox center alcohol and drug treatment program which deals with methadone dependency and addiction rehabilitation experts work tirelessly to relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is a safe process. There won't be any real health hazards associated with methadone detoxification when the individual is healthy, however, this isn't always true. Illness as a result of drug abuse could make methadone detoxification dangerous, and is one more reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification in a specialist setting.