well.... most people who are opiate addicted take much bigger risks than that.I know where you are coming from ,but you need to understand that methadone is based on the "harm reduction model" of therapy and methadone is a much better option to those who risk contracting and or transmitting HIV/AIDS to to themselves or their fellow users.I should know ,I myself was on methadone for 6 years and it was worth it for the time.I am now off of it and my drug seeking behaviors are totally diminished thanks to years of having the opportunity to live a more normal existence.I really didn't believe methadone would help ...but it did...now for the people that take methadone and die????It is sad...but how exact are those statistics????..I mean I couldn't even pull up the Site!!!Also most clinics have strict protocol on any one who wishes to be on the methadone program.The addicts upon first dosage get such a small amount and is monitored closely for adverse reactions...I really do hope your wrong about that statistic...the truth is your probably not...most prescription drugs have side affects and adverse reactions like that...hey..if your still around please comment with more info.THANKS-rMd