Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, who has headed the pharmaceutical company for eight years, will step down after a period to support a smooth transition to new leadership.

The side effects of the two drugs combined include dizziness, abnormal sensations, altered taste, insomnia, constipation and dry mouth. Topiramate also carries a risk of birth defects, so it should not be taken during pregnancy.

Novo Nordisk, maker of weight loss drug Wegovy, says CEO Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen is leaving the company by "mutual agreement."