DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed non-small cell lung cancer not amenable to curative surgery or radiotherapy Metastatic or inoperable locally advanced progressive disease At least 1 target lesion accurately measurable in at least 1 dimension Longest diameter at least 20 mm with conventional techniques or at least 10 mm with spiral CT scans Must have failed and completed 1 and only 1 platinum based regimen in the first line setting for metastatic/inoperable locally advanced disease No symptomatic brain metastases