Second-quarter sales of the blockbuster drug soared 67% on year, despite millions of U.S. patients using generic unbranded versions of the drug.

Novo Nordisk is to cut costs as the Wegovy-maker battles competition from rival Eli Lilly and copycat versions of its obesity drug, with lower growth expected for its treatments in the second half of the year.

Sales of Novo Nordisk's blockbuster Wegovy obesity drug rose 67% in the second quarter despite continued competition from compounded drug makers. The pharma giant last week cut its full-year guidance and named Mike Doustdar as its new CEO.