A lot of people don't understand this completely once they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription drug doesn't actually treat opiate dependency. Methadone, whether included in an opiate maintenance program or abused illegally, produces significant dependence which is way more severe than other opiates such as heroin. For this reason, individuals who wish to stop use of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehabilitation professionals. Anyone who has attempted to stop methadone use by themselves abruptly can advise you that this is virtually impossible, and many relapse in a short time. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for those who desire to abstain from the drug once and for all. Inside a drug and alcohol detoxification center alcohol and drug rehab program which treats methadone dependence and addiction rehabilitation professionals do everything they can to help relieve withdrawal symptoms and ensure methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There won't be any real health problems associated with methadone detoxification in the event the person is healthy, however this isn't always the case. Bad health due to drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification dangerous, which is another reason people should undergo methadone detoxification inside a professional setting.