Lots of people don't understand this completely once they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription medication doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether included in an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, creates significant dependence which is way more severe than other opiates like heroin. Because of this, individuals who wish to get off of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehabilitation specialists. Anyone who has tried to stop methadone use independently cold turkey can tell you that this is practically impossible, and most relapse quickly. With professional methadone detoxification, there's hope for individuals who desire to abstain from the drug once and for all. Inside a drug and alcohol detoxification center alcohol and drug rehab center which deals with methadone dependence and addiction rehab experts do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There are no real health problems linked to methadone detoxification when the person is in good health, however, this isn't always true. Poor health as a consequence of drug abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, which is another reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional setting.