PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic therapy: Prior immunotherapy or biologic therapy may be allowed, but must have been completed at least 1 month prior to randomization Chemotherapy: No prior chemotherapy for advanced stage pancreatic cancer Fluorouracil (with or without leucovorin calcium or interferon) given with radiation as a radiation sensitizer may be allowed, but must have been completed at least 3 months prior to randomization Endocrine therapy: Prior hormonal therapy may be allowed, but must have been completed at least 1 month prior to randomization Radiotherapy: No radiation therapy within 4 weeks prior to first treatment Surgery: See Disease Characteristics