A lot of people don't understand this completely when they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone being a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, creates considerable dependence which is far more severe than most other opiates such as heroin. For this reason, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will have to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of treatment professionals. Individuals who have attempted to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can tell you that this is nearly impossible, and many relapse quickly. With expert methadone detoxification, there's hope for many who need to get off of the drug completely. In an alcohol and drug detoxification center alcohol and drug treatment center which deals with methadone dependency and addiction rehab experts work tirelessly to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is a safe process. There are no real health risks associated with methadone detoxification when the person is healthy, however this isn't always the case. Illness because of drug abuse may make methadone detoxification risky, which is one more reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification in a professional facility.