Originally Posted by Global_Hi_Flyer

Pills and such (dry medications) can be carried about anywhere. If they're prescription, make sure they're in your carry-on.

Cough syrup is a tougher challenge. You may end up arguing with the TSA over the quantity you can carry on board. They're supposed to let you carry it on, provided you declare it in advance that you have >3 ounces, but some of the screeners will want to limit you to the amount that you can use in-flight. If it's prescription, then you can arguably carry more, but be prepared to have to check it. Personally, I'd put the bottles in a zip lock so they don't get all over your clothes if you have to put it in a checked bag.

As for the spices, if the TSA thinks they're illegal drugs, you can anticipate that they will call in law-enforcement. Likewise the Canadian Customs agents. That's especially true if you carry them in an unmarked container.