Many people don't understand this completely when they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription medication doesn't in fact treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illegally, creates significant dependence which is much more severe than other opiates including heroin. For this reason, individuals who want to stop use of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab professionals. Whoever has tried to stop methadone use by themselves cold turkey can tell you that this is virtually impossible, and most relapse quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for individuals who desire to get off of the drug completely. Within a drug detoxification center alcohol and drug rehabilitation program which deals with methadone dependence and addiction rehabilitation experts work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is a safe process. There won't be any real health hazards related to methadone detoxification in the event the person is in good health, however, this isn't always the case. Illness as a result of substance abuse could make methadone detoxification risky, which is one more reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification inside a specialist facility.