A lot of people don't realize this completely when 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 illegally, produces significant dependence which is far more severe than most other opiates such as heroin. Because of this, individuals who want to get off of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehabilitation professionals. Individuals who have attempted to stop methadone use on their own cold turkey can advise you that this is practically impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is certainly hope for those who wish to get off of the drug forever. Within a drug and alcohol detoxification facility drug rehabilitation center which deals with methadone dependency and addiction treatment experts work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There won't be any real health risks linked to methadone detoxification in the event the person is in good health, however this isn't always true. Poor health because of drug abuse might make methadone detoxification risky, which is one more reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification in a specialist facility.