HEALTHIER THAN EXPECTED: Express Scripts Holding Co. said second-quarter earnings fell 49 percent due to acquisition-related costs, but adjusted earnings per share of 88 cents topped the average analyst estimate. Revenue more than doubled.

WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED: Express Scripts completed its $29 billion acquisition of Medco Health shortly after the quarter began, and it said it remains on track for $1 billion in annual savings.

SHOT IN THE ARM: The pharmacy benefits manager lifted its earnings guidance for 2012, citing better-than-expected results in the year to date, and the stock rallied in after-hours trading.