The model of schizopheria symptoms psychotically better known with loss of Laten Inhibition (LI). In the animal study (rat) showed loss of LI linked to low level of hormone.

Based on animal study result by researchers at Tel Aviv University, Israel, loss inhibition may promote psychosis in vulnerable women.

Dr. Weiner, the researcher from Tel Aviv University said, “These new results suggest that restoring normal levels of estrogen may protect menopausal women who are vulnerable to schizophrenia. We’ve known for some time that when the level of estrogen is low, vulnerability to psychotic symptoms increases and antipsychotic drugs are less likely to work. Now, our preclinical findings show why this might be happening.”

She added, “Antipsychotic drugs are less effective during low periods of estrogen in the body, after birth, and in menopause. Our research links schizophrenia and its treatment to estrogen levels. Men seem less likely to begin schizophrenia after their 40s, which also suggests that estrogen is the culprit.”

Dr. Weiner believes that preventive therapy to the women with estrogen could reduce the risk of schizophrenia.

However not everyone agrees that estrogen hormone replacement therapy should be added to schizophrenia treatment as it may increasing the side effects and the risk with myocardial infarction and cervical cancer.