Lots of people don't realize this completely once they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription medication doesn't in fact treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, produces considerable dependence which is much more severe than most other opiates such as heroin. Due to this, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of treatment professionals. Those who have tried to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can advise you that this is virtually impossible, and most relapse very quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who wish to get off of the drug once and for all. In a drug detoxification center alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility which handled methadone dependence and addiction rehab specialists do everything they can to ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There won't be any real health problems connected with methadone detoxification when the person is healthy, however, this isn't always the case. Illness due to drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification dangerous, and is another reason people should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional facility.