Many individuals don't realize this completely 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 used illicitly, creates significant dependence which is far more severe than other opiates like heroin. Due to this, individuals who wish to get off of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab specialists. Those who have tried to stop methadone use by themselves cold turkey can tell you that this is virtually impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With expert methadone detoxification, there's hope for many who need to abstain from the drug once and for all. Inside an alcohol and drug detoxification program alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility which treats methadone dependence and addiction rehabilitation experts work tirelessly to relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is really a safe course of action. There won't be any real health risks associated with methadone detoxification in the event the individual is in good health, however, this isn't always true. Poor health as a result of drug abuse might make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason people should undergo methadone detoxification inside a specialist setting.