Many people don't realize this completely once they commence a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, produces significant dependence which is far more severe than most other opiates such as heroin. For this reason, individuals who want to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the aid of rehab professionals. Whoever has attempted to stop methadone use independently cold turkey can tell you that this is nearly impossible, and most relapse very quickly. With expert methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who need to abstain from the drug once and for all. Inside an alcohol and drug detoxification program alcohol and drug rehabilitation program which treats methadone dependency and addiction rehab specialists do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and make sure methadone detoxification is a safe process. There are no real health hazards connected with methadone detoxification when the person is in good health, however, this isn't always true. Bad health because of drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification risky, which is one more reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional facility.