DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed ductal carcinoma of the exocrine pancreas Locally advanced or metastatic Failed 1, but no more than 1, prior gemcitabine-containing chemotherapy regimen (either as a single agent or in combination with another agent) (See criteria for prior radiation using gemcitabine or fluorouracil at diminished doses in Prior/Concurrent Therapy section) No neuroendocrine or islet cell tumors or lymphoma of the pancreas