A lot of people don't understand this completely once they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, produces considerable dependence which is far more severe than most other opiates such as heroin. Because of this, individuals who would like to get off of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehabilitation professionals. Individuals who have attempted to stop methadone use on their own cold turkey can advise you that this is almost impossible, and many relapse quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there's hope for many who need to abstain from the drug forever. In an alcohol and drug detox program drug and alcohol treatment center which deals with methadone dependence and addiction rehab specialists work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There are no real health threats connected with methadone detoxification in the event the individual is healthy, however, this isn't always the case. Illness due to drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification risky, and is one more reason people should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional setting.