Many individuals don't realize this fully whenever they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't actually effectively resolve opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illicitly, produces considerable dependence which is much more severe than most other opiates including heroin. Because of this, individuals who would like to stop use of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehabilitation professionals. Whoever has attempted to stop methadone use independently cold turkey can tell you that this is nearly impossible, and many relapse rapidly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who would like to abstain from the drug once and for all. Within an alcohol and drug detox center alcohol and drug rehab center which treats methadone dependence and addiction rehab professionals work tirelessly to relieve withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There aren't any real health risks associated with methadone detoxification when the individual is healthy, but this isn't always the case. Poor health because of drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification dangerous, which is another reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional setting.