OBJECTIVES: I. Evaluate the efficacy of paclitaxel and carboplatin with amifostine on progression free survival and overall survival in patients with metastatic or recurrent epithelial endometrial carcinoma not amenable to surgery or radiotherapy. II. Evaluate response (confirmed and unconfirmed partial response and complete response) rate to this regimen in this patient population. III. Assess the nature and degree of toxicity of this regimen in these patients.