PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: At least 3 weeks since prior immunotherapy No concurrent immunotherapy Chemotherapy: See Disease Characteristics At least 5 weeks since prior nitrosoureas, melphalan, or mitomycin At least 3 weeks since other prior chemotherapy Prior taxane therapy allowed only if administered on a 3 week or greater schedule No concurrent chemotherapy Endocrine therapy: At least 3 weeks since prior hormonal therapy Concurrent megestrol (Megace) allowed No other concurrent hormonal therapy Radiotherapy: At least 3 weeks since prior radiotherapy No prior radiotherapy to greater than 30% of bone marrow No concurrent radiotherapy Surgery: At least 3 weeks since major surgery Other: At least 1 week since prior parenteral antibiotics