A lot of people don't realize this completely once they begin 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 illicitly, creates significant dependence which is way more severe than other opiates like heroin. For this reason, individuals who wish to get off of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab professionals. Individuals who have tried to stop methadone use on their own abruptly can tell you that this is practically impossible, and most relapse quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there's hope for those who wish to get off of the drug once and for all. Within a drug and alcohol detox facility drug and alcohol rehab center which handled methadone dependency and addiction treatment specialists work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There are no real health threats linked to methadone detoxification when the person is healthy, however this isn't always true. Bad health as a result of substance abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional setting.