DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically proven metastatic (stage IV) or locally advanced (stage IIIB) adenocarcinoma of the breast. Bidimensionally measurable disease. No active central nervous system (CNS) metastases. Brain metastases must be controlled for at least 3 months and have other sites of measurable disease. No carcinomatous meningitis. No lymphangitic lung metastases as the only site of metastatic disease. Hormone receptor status: Any estrogen or progesterone receptor status.