A lot of people don't realize this fully once they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription medication doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illicitly, produces considerable dependence which is far more extreme than most other opiates like heroin. Due to this, individuals who would like to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of treatment professionals. Anyone who has attempted to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can advise you that this is practically impossible, and most relapse quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there's hope for many who need to get off of the drug for good. In a drug and alcohol detoxification center alcohol and drug rehab center which treats methadone dependence and addiction rehab professionals do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is a safe process. There won't be any real health hazards connected with methadone detoxification in the event the person is in good health, but this isn't always the case. Bad health as a consequence of drug abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification within a professional facility.