The phase II SOluble guanylate Cyclase stimulatoR in heArT failurE Study ( SOCRATES ) programme consists of two randomized , parallel-group , placebo-controlled , double-blind , multicentre studies , SOCRATES-REDUCED ( in patients with LVEF < 45 % ) and SOCRATES-PRESERVED ( in those with LVEF 45 % ) , that will explore the pharmacodynamic effects , safety and tolerability , and pharmacokinetics of four dose regimens of the once-daily oral sGC stimulator vericiguat ( BAY 1021189 ) over 12 weeks compared with placebo .