Many people don't realize this completely when they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription medicine doesn't actually treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illicitly, produces considerable dependence which is much more severe than other opiates including heroin. For that reason, individuals who would like to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab professionals. Anyone who has tried to stop methadone use on their own abruptly can advise you that this is virtually impossible, and many relapse quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who need to abstain from the drug once and for all. Inside a drug and alcohol detoxification facility drug rehab program which handled methadone dependence and addiction treatment specialists do everything they can to help ease withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is really a safe course of action. There aren't any real health hazards connected with methadone detoxification when the individual is in good health, but this isn't always true. Poor health because of drug abuse might make methadone detoxification dangerous, and is another reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification within a specialist setting.