A lot of people don't realize this completely whenever they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illicitly, produces significant dependence which is much more severe than other opiates like heroin. For this reason, individuals who would like to get off of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of treatment specialists. Individuals who have attempted to stop methadone use independently abruptly can tell you that this is nearly impossible, and many relapse rapidly. With expert methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who would like to get off of the drug for good. Inside an alcohol and drug detoxification center drug rehabilitation facility which treats methadone dependence and addiction treatment experts work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There aren't any real health risks associated with methadone detoxification if the individual is in good health, however this isn't always the case. Poor health due to drug abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, and is one more reason people should undergo methadone detoxification in a specialist facility.