I just wanted to share with you what happen to me when I was on methadone. I went to a clinic and I was very sick with withdraws. I felt like I was going to die so theiy put me on the methadone and it did take the withdraws away but it did not stop me from using. I got on my knees a few months ago because I was coming off methadone. From what I have learned is that you have to be on it for years before you start to decress your dose. I am now on a drug called suboxone. It is very helpfull and I am all most off it about 2 more weeks and I should be free of this. That has helped me in my recovery. And I am very gratefull for the meds. that I am on now. They have saved my life. Alot of people do not agree but I had to do what was right for me. Everyone is different. I tried many times to stop on my own and it never worked for me. Maybe your sister can look into this for your niece. It might help her like it helped me. I will pray for your family. God Bless!