Wellburtin and Anxiety/Depression

I suffer from Anxiety and Depression and have for many years. I have done therapy many times and while it helps somewhat for a while I always seem to find myself back in the same position. I have tried BuSpar but didn't notice really any difference in my anxiety and it didn't help with the depression. I am really not into the meds, but lately am thinking of trying Wellbutrin since I want to stop smoking anyways (bad family history of heart attacks) and there is not a high risk for weight gain or sexual side effects. I am 28 years old. But, I have a few questions first:

a) Does Wellbutrin help anxiety? I heard somewhere it can hurt it.
b) What happens if you have a few beers while taking it (no family history of seizure)?
c) How long before it works and what are the side effects?
d) Since I've always pretty much been prone to anxiety and depression, will I need to take meds the rest of my live?

Any help you have would be great.

[Roger Gould, M.D.]

Good questions.  Yes wellbutrin can help with anxiety and depression but like other similar medications it is a matter of trial and error. Side effects are almost nil.  A few beers won't hurt.  No, not for a lifetime...time, age, experience, and perspective make a difference...the pills are only a temporary bridge for times of stress and indecision and transition.