Many individuals don't realize this completely whenever they begin a methadone maintenance program, but methadone as a prescription drug doesn't in fact treat opiate addiction. Methadone, whether used as part of an opiate maintenance program or used illicitly, creates considerable dependence which is much more extreme than other opiates such as heroin. For that reason, individuals who would like to stop use of methadone will need to undergo methadone detoxification with the help of rehab specialists. Whoever has attempted to stop methadone use by themselves cold turkey can advise you that this is nearly impossible, and most relapse rapidly. With professional methadone detoxification, there is hope for many who need to abstain from the drug completely. Inside a drug and alcohol detoxification program drug rehabilitation program which deals with methadone dependency and addiction treatment specialists do everything they can to relieve withdrawal symptoms and make certain methadone detoxification is really a safe process. There won't be any real health problems related to methadone detoxification when the individual is healthy, however, this isn't always true. Poor health due to drug or alcohol use may make methadone detoxification risky, and is another reason individuals should undergo methadone detoxification in a specialist setting.