Many individuals don't realize this completely whenever they commence a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illicitly, produces significant dependence which is far more severe than other opiates like heroin. For this reason, individuals who wish to get off of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of treatment professionals. Anyone who has attempted to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can tell you that this is virtually impossible, and most relapse in a short time. With professional methadone detoxification, there is certainly hope for many who would like to abstain from the drug completely. Inside a drug and alcohol detox center drug rehabilitation program which treats methadone dependency and addiction treatment professionals do everything they can to ease withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There are no real health threats connected with methadone detoxification in the event the individual is in good health, however, this isn't always the case. Poor health as a result of drug abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification within a professional facility.