OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the maximum tolerated dose and recommended phase II dose of docetaxel in combination with epirubicin and filgrastim (G-CSF) as first-line therapy in women with metastatic breast cancer (phase II closed as of 03/27/2000). II. Determine the pharmacokinetic profile of docetaxel and epirubicin in these patients. III. Evaluate the toxicity of this regimen given at the recommended phase II dose. IV. Determine the response rate and duration of response in patients treated with this regimen.