Many people don't understand this fully once they commence a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription medicine doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illegally, creates significant dependence which is much more extreme than other opiates such as heroin. Because of this, individuals who want to stop use of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab professionals. Those who have attempted 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's hope for many who desire to abstain from the drug once and for all. In a drug detoxification facility drug rehabilitation program which deals with methadone dependency and addiction rehab specialists work tirelessly to relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There are no real health problems associated with methadone detoxification in the event the person is in good health, but this isn't always the case. Illness because of drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification risky, which is another reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional facility.