WebMD 2Q profit more than triples, tops forecast

WebMD Health Corp. (WBMD) on Tuesday reported profit that more than tripled in its second quarter, and topped analysts' expectations.

The New York-based company said earnings increased to $9.7 million, or 23 cents per share, from $2.6 million, or 5 cents per share, in the same quarter a year earlier. The average estimate of analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for profit of 19 cents per share.

The health information website said revenue climbed 12 percent to $140.4 million from $125.3 million in the same quarter a year ago, and beat Wall Street forecasts. Analysts expected $139.1 million, according to Zacks.

WebMD Health shares ended regular trading down 1.6 percent to $47.95. The stock has increased 42.5 percent in the last 12 months.