Lots of people don't realize this completely when they start a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription medication doesn't in fact treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether included in an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, creates considerable dependence which is much more severe than most other opiates including heroin. For that reason, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will likely need to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab specialists. Whoever has tried to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can tell you that this is almost impossible, and most relapse in a short time. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for individuals who wish to get off of the drug for good. In an alcohol and drug detox center drug rehab center which treats methadone dependence and addiction treatment experts do everything they can to help ease withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is a safe course of action. There are no real health risks linked to methadone detoxification in the event the person is in good health, but this isn't always the case. Poor health as a result of drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification risky, which is one more reason folks should undergo methadone detoxification in a specialist setting.